Making small talk

Small talk is a good way to start conversations at parties and networking events. Here are some examples.

• These appetizers are delicious.

• Are you enjoying the evening?

• Haven't we met before? You look very familiar.

• I see you work for Alliance.

• I'm with Defco. I'm their sales manager.

• I know him, too. It really is a small world.

You look familiar. Have we met?

I'm not sure. My name is Ed Phelps.

Phelps? Is your wife Karen Phelps?

She is.

I work with Karen! My name is Tom Banks.

Nice to see you, Tom. Small world, huh?

It certainly is.

Getting down to business

After starting a conversation with small talk, you might want to get down to business. You can use expressions like these:

• So, what brings you here?

• Here – let me give you my business card.

• I'm actually here to look for a new position in finance.

• I'm exploring my options.

Here are some ways to end the conversation, depending on whether you want to follow up with the person.

• It was great talking to you. I hope you enjoy the evening.

• Excuse me, but I see an old colleague I need to talk to.

• Pardon me, but I need to freshen my drink.

• We really should follow up. Is it okay if I call you?

• I'd love to talk more about this, at your convenience.

I'm ______ here to look for a new position in finance.

• rarely
• hardly
• actually (True)

Excuse me, but I see a ______ I need to talk to.

• follow up
• position
• colleague (True)

______ me, but I need to freshen my drink.

• Object
• Honest
• Pardon (True)

We really should ______. Is it okay if I call you?

• object to
• take into
• follow up (True)

I'd love to talk more, at your ______.

• position
• objection
• convenience (True)

Actually, I'm ______ my options.

• objecting
• exploring (True)
• following

Understanding business cards

A business card typically includes the person's name, company name and job title. The card also will include contact information, such as address, phone number, email and social networking details.

• A: Let me give you my business card.
  B: Thanks. Here's mine.

52.png

What social network does Jennifer use?

• jweld@
• TxTme
• Babble (True)

53.png

What is Jennifer's position?

• vice president
• director (True)
• assistant