Number 1 Tip for Making Small Talk in Business English (Without Feeling Awkward)

Small talk can feel unnatural—especially when you’re trying to use business English. You might feel comfortable discussing technical topics or explaining your work in the tech industry, but when it comes to networking or casual conversations, it can be much harder to feel confident.

Why Small Talk Feels Difficult

One of the biggest challenges with small talk is not knowing what to say. Should you talk about your work in the tech industry? Ask about their family? Or should you keep it strictly professional?

Then, there’s the fear of running out of things to say, leading to that dreaded awkward silence. This is especially true for tech professionals, startup founders, and executives who are often more comfortable discussing technical aspects than engaging in casual conversation.

The Simple Solution: Ask Great Questions

Instead of feeling pressure to talk, focus on getting the other person to speak. Have some open-ended questions ready, like:

“What do you think of the city so far?”
“How was your journey here today?”
“What’s keeping you busy at the moment?”

These types of questions encourage a back-and-forth conversation and help you avoid those simple “yes” or “no” answers. They’re great for building relationships and easing into the conversation, making it more comfortable for both parties.

The Secret to Feeling Comfortable with Small Talk

A big part of making small talk easier is changing your mindset. If you see small talk as a chore, it will feel like one. But if you see it as a chance to connect, learn something new about someone, or even just practice your English speaking skills before a meeting, it becomes much less daunting.

Try this: Go into your next networking event or meeting with a goal. Maybe it’s to ask three people an interesting question or to practice your listening skills. The more you do it, the more natural it becomes, and you’ll see an improvement in your business communication skills.

Why Small Talk Matters for Professionals

For tech professionals, startup founders, and executives, mastering small talk is crucial for networking in international tech companies. Whether you’re preparing for a conference, negotiating partnerships, or aiming for a leadership role, improving your small talk skills can make a huge difference.

Small talk isn’t just filler—it’s an essential part of business communication. Once you become comfortable with it, you’ll find that building relationships in English becomes much easier, boosting your English fluency in the process.

Small talk doesn’t have to feel awkward! If you’d like some tips tailored to your situation, let’s connect. I’d love to help you feel more confident in conversations. Reach out for a relaxed, informal chat!