Did you know small talk has superpowers? 🦸 Well, maybe not at your family reunion. Unless you're talking about your great uncle's hair piece! 🤣
Small talk helps you build relationships in the workplace *and* helps you connect with a hiring manager in an interview. 🤝 Light conversation allows you get to know people and breaks the ice in stiff situations. Who knows? Maybe your tiny talk will go over so well, you'll have an offer letter in your inbox when you get home! 📨
Here’s Five Fast Facts on small talk and interviews:
- 🧑💻 Research Rocks - A standard interview tip is to do your homework beforehand so you get to know the company. While you're researching, look up the hiring manager and interview team on LinkedIn or other social media sites. There, you'll get a glimpse into their personal and professional backgrounds, which are great conversation starters.
- 🤭 Safe For Work - When engaging in small talk, stick with low-key, safe topics. In other words, save your political banter for our Facebook page's comments section (LOL). Good topics include sports, movies, music, and the weather. You can also play a little "who do you know" and bring up potential mutual connections in your industry.
- 👂 Lend an Ear - Active listening is also super-important. Non-verbal cues matter just as much as the words you use. When an interviewer says something you agree with, throw in a head nod. Avoid closed off body language, like crossed arms, and make some eye contact. Ask open-ended questions to keep the conversation flowing.
- 🤹 All About Balance - Remember, small talk is important, but don't let it take away from the main conversation. Too much small talk could be distracting and prevent the interviewer from getting through all of their questions. Use your best judgment and aim to make the conversation as natural as possible.
- 🏆 Practice Makes Perfect - If you're not the best at small talk, practice with your family and friends. Role-play your interview beforehand so you can get a feel for how the conversation might go. You can also practice with strangers at parties, bars, or wherever you like to hang out. This allows you to test the waters before showtime.
🔥Bottom line: What would an interview be without conversation? Interviews can be super-awkward, but they're a necessary evil when it comes to landing that job. A little small talk helps smooth things over and you just might learn some fun facts about your new boss. Don't forget to send a thank-you note after your interview! Click here for some top tips.
Are you a master when it comes to small talk?
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