1. The Art of Everyday Conversations

Small talk helps build connections in English-speaking cultures. These aren’t deep discussions, but friendly exchanges that follow predictable patterns. 

2. Universal Conversation Starters
3. Safe Topics for Anyone

1. Context-Specific Starters

• At events: “How do you know [host’s name]?” 

• In waiting rooms: “Do you come here often?” 

• At cafes: “That looks good – what did you order?” 

3. Keeping Conversations Flowing

Follow-up Techniques: 

1. ECHO Method: Repeat a word they said with questioning tone 

1. Them: “I went hiking yesterday” 

1. You: “Hiking? Where did you go?” 

1. ABC Response: Answer, Bridge, Contribute 

1. Them: “I’m from Barcelona” 

1. You: “Oh beautiful city! (Answer) I’ve heard the architecture is amazing (Bridge). Have you lived there long? (Contribute)” 

4. Polite Exit Strategies

When you need to end a conversation: 

• “It’s been great chatting! I should go catch [name] before they leave” 

• “I’ll let you get back to your [book/coffee/friends]” 

• “We should continue this another time!” 

5. Practice Exercises
6. Match starters to situations:

1. “That’s an interesting accent – where are you from originally?” 
   a) Coffee shop 
   b) International conference 

1. Create follow-up questions:
   Them: “I just got back from Japan”
   You: ? 
2. Role-play:
   Practice starting, maintaining, and politely ending a 2-minute conversation about weekend plans.

Cultural Notes for Better Small Talk 

🇬🇧 UK: Avoid personal questions initially 
🇺🇸 USA: More accepting of casual questions 
🇦🇺 Australia: Humor is often appreciated 

Next Lesson: Handling Difficult Conversations in English 

Small Talk Do’s and Don’ts 

✔ DO: Smile, make eye contact, ask open questions 
❌ DON’T: Discuss politics/religion immediately, interrupt