How can I become a better small-talker?

Small talk should only be something you KNOW about. It doesn’t matter the subject…be observant. And, relax, it will come naturally.

If you’re initiating conversation, don’t bring up something you’re not interested in. Enthusiasm is the best way to engage others. It doesn’t matter whether you’re talking about collection spoons – if you’re interested, it’s easier to get others to listen.

I can’t tell you how many times someone will ask, without any real interest, “So.. what’s your major?” and after we exchange majors we end up with ”... right… so…. how’s the, um, weather?” Awkward.

Ask questions, too. It doubles in function: you learn something about others, and are able to wait and plan what to say next.

First, introduce yourself and shake hands, if the situation warrants it. next, be complimentary on the people you want to talk to. a great hairstyle or good-looking clothes is always a good opener for a conversation. be concened with the people you want to talk to. listen to what they are saying and agree or disagree. nature will take its course from this point.

Look for something you have in common. You’re both at the same party, how do you know the people here? Or, is that the new iphone? How do you like it?

Try to ask questions that require more than a canned response.

Honestly, just starting college offers some of the best questions: where are you from? Did you do anything cool this summer? I bet a lot of people drove a good distance to get there. Any fun road trip stories?

Just a few suggestions, good luck

Would you like to practise, albeit in writing?

Answer here, or Pm me, and we’ll chat.

:-)

(I teach Bus. Comm.)

You’re going to be in a place where there are a million other people in your situation… this gives you something in common to talk about. And, as @muppetish mentioned, you’re going to be excited because it’s new! So no matter what you talk about, it will be engaging… especially because you’re going to be with a ton of others who are sharing the experience, you can talk about things like where you’re from, who you know in common, what it’s like where you grew up, fun stories from senior year, how you spent your summer, how hard/easy/different it is to move away/start college, how scared or not you are… nearly everything you will feel, they will feel. just go with the flow, it’ll be a lot easier than you think! you’re at a great place in your life, embrace and ENJOY it. i’d give so much to go back to freshman year

College is about coming out of your shell.

You’ll be fine. :)