Getting Started
Introduction
This sheet provides practical English phrases used in small talk—informal, friendly conversation used in social or professional contexts.
- Small Talk Guide (FluentU)
- BBC Learning English – Small Talk (bbc.co.uk)
Starting Conversations
First time meeting someone
- Nice to meet you
- How do you do
- It’s a pleasure to meet you
- I’ve heard great things about you
At a networking event or conference
- What brings you here
- Have you been to one of these before
- Are you speaking or just attending
- How did you hear about this event
Casual greetings with acquaintances
- Hey, how’s it going
- What’s up
- How have you been
- Long time no see
Friendly openers (small observations)
- Lovely weather today, isn’t it
- Did you catch the game last night
- Traffic was crazy this morning
- I love your laptop sticker — is that custom
Waiting in line or at the coffee machine
- The line’s always this long here
- Do you come here often
- What do you usually get
- Looks like we both needed a caffeine fix
Online meetings or remote calls
- Can you hear me okay
- Where are you dialing in from
- How’s the weather over there
- Hope your week’s going well
In an elevator or short encounter
- Which floor
- Busy day
- That bag looks heavy — carrying anything interesting
- I always forget which way this elevator goes first
At a party or casual gathering
- How do you know the host
- I don’t think we’ve met yet
- That’s a great playlist — do you know who picked it
- Have you tried the snacks yet
Common Small Talk Topics
Weather
- Beautiful day, isn’t it?
- It’s freezing out there today.
- Looks like it might rain later.
- Can’t believe how hot it is today!
Work
- What do you do for a living?
- Been busy at work lately?
- I work in tech. How about you?
- Do you enjoy your job?
Hobbies
- What do you like to do in your free time?
- I’ve recently gotten into hiking.
- Do you play any sports?
- I love reading thrillers—what about you?
Travel
- Have you traveled anywhere recently?
- Where’s your favorite place to visit?
- I just got back from Japan—it was amazing!
- Do you prefer beaches or cities?
Keeping the Conversation Going
Showing interest
- Really?
- That’s interesting!
- No way!
Asking follow-up
- How did that go?
- Why’s that?
- And then what happened?
Agreeing
- Totally.
- I know what you mean.
- Exactly.
Ending Conversations Politely
- Well, I’d better get going.
- It was great chatting with you.
- Let’s catch up again sometime!
- I’ll let you mingle. See you around!
- I need to grab a drink. Talk later?
Tips for Better Small Talk
- Smile and use friendly body language.
- Listen actively and show interest.
- Avoid controversial topics (e.g., politics, religion).
- Ask open-ended questions.
- Keep it short but genuine.
- Find common ground quickly.