Situation 1
You are waiting for the start of a marketing conference. A person next to you is also looking at the event program. You are both waiting for the first lecture to begin.

Situation 2
You step into an elevator in an office building. A colleague from another department enters with you. You have a few floors to make small talk.

Situation 3
You are at the office coffee machine. A new employee approaches, making their coffee and looking around as if unsure who to talk to.

Situation 4

You are at a corporate networking event after a business presentation. A manager from another company joins you at a high table while getting a drink. You have a few minutes to make casual conversation.

Useful Phrases for Small Talk in a Business Setting

Starting a Conversation

  • Hi, have you been to this conference before?
  • Looks like we’re both waiting for the same session. What are you most excited about?
  • That was an interesting presentation. What did you think?
  • I don’t think we’ve met before. I’m [Your Name], I work in [Your Department/Company].

Keeping the Conversation Going

  • What brought you to this event?
  • How long have you been working in [industry/field]?
  • That’s really interesting! Can you tell me more about that?
  • I’ve heard a lot about [Topic]. What’s your experience with it?
  • How do you usually approach [a common challenge in the industry]?

Talking in an Office Setting

  • How are things going in your department?
  • I heard your team is working on [Project]. How’s it going?
  • I just joined the company a few months ago. What’s something you wish you knew when you started?
  • Looks like we both need a coffee break! How’s your day so far?

Ending the Conversation Gracefully

  • It was great chatting with you! I hope we can stay in touch.
  • I don’t want to take up too much of your time, but I really enjoyed our conversation.
  • I’ll let you get back to your coffee, but let’s connect on LinkedIn!
  • I should head back to my team, but it was nice meeting you.
  • Enjoy the rest of the event!

Остання зміна: суботу 8 березня 2025 12:07 PM