Upworthy
6 ways people cracked the code to master office small talk with coworkers
"Brevity is your superpower in any low-stakes interaction."
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Microsoft Leader Reveals Four Rules for Mastering Workplace Small Talk
A recent viral video by Microsoft leader Simon, known online as "Quiet Growth Tips," is offering professionals a concise guide to mastering small talk and fostering engaging conversations in the workplace. Uploaded on October 27, 2023, the video has garnered significant attention, highlighting practical communication strategies for career advancement. Simon outlines four core rules to enhance social interactions. Firstly, he advises against "yes/no" questions, instead encouraging open-ended inquiries to prompt more detailed responses. "Instead of asking, 'Did you enjoy the conference?', try 'What brought you to the conference today?'" Simon suggests, emphasizing that this approach encourages individuals to open up. Secondly, he recommends using "whys" and "whats" to follow up on initial responses, allowing for deeper exploration of topics and ensuring conversations flow smoothly. For example, if someone mentions learning about AI trends, one could ask, "Why is your company keen on having you explore the latest AI trends?" The third rule stresses that not all workplace conversations need to be strictly business-related. Simon encourages discussing personal interests, hobbies, or upcoming plans, such as weekend activities or vacation plans, to build rapport. Finally, he advises knowing when and how to gracefully exit a conversation. "This creates an air of curiosity, leaving the other person eager to learn more about you," Simon explains, suggesting phrases like, "It was great talking to you, I've got a few more people to connect with, but I'd love to continue this conversation on Teams." These tips aim to equip professionals with the tools to navigate social interactions confidently and effectively.
