Striking up a conversation—especially with a stranger—is a lot like adding kindling to a fire pit and hoping it ignites. Choose the wrong starter, and the flame will fizzle out. But when you get it ...

Small talk has its uses, especially in the business world. It can help us suss each other out, establish a basic level of trust, or just fill the time while we’re waiting in line. But let’s be honest, ...

Empathy is powerful — and often, it’s expressed best in small talk. This is a phrase that radiates warmth. It’s how great conversationalists make people feel appreciated for sharing. Instead of ...

You’re standing in line at the supermarket or drugstore when a stranger speaks up. “Hello, how are you?” the stranger greets you. “Good, and you?” might be your response. Your conversation partner ...

The vertical questioning technique opens doors. Source: peopleimages/Adobe Stock Images Justina recently moved to a new town and has been feeling lonely, but the task of making new friends seems ...

"Skip the Small Talk" events offer speed-friending to the shy and the bold. A room filled with people talking and sharing their thoughts can be either an extrovert's dream or an introvert's nightmare.

Charles Duhigg, author of "The Power of Habit," argues that small talk isn't an innate skill, but rather a learned behavior that can be studied and crafted to perfectly suit any situation — whether ...

Picture yourself at a major industry conference, surrounded by potential collaborators, mentors, and clients. Yet despite the opportunities, most conversations never progress past “How’s business?” ...