15 answers
1
Question
Asked
1403 views
How to branch out within the business community,?
Preferably handling proper small talk
Login to comment
15 answers
Updated
Wyatt’s Answer
Hello Edwin,
With over 25 years of experience in the business world, I started on the ground floor—right where you are now.
Expanding your presence in the business community starts with showing up—at networking events, school business groups, local meetups, alumni functions, or online groups. But it’s small talk, handled well, that turns casual encounters into lasting connections.
The key is to be curious and approachable. Openers like “What brought you here today?” or “What’s keeping you busy lately?” make conversations easy to start. From there, discussing shared interests, local news, or industry trends keeps things flowing naturally.
Rather than pushing your business right away, focus on listening and offering value—whether that’s an insight, a connection, or just a thoughtful exchange. If the conversation clicks, follow up on LinkedIn or over email with a short, friendly message.
Professional small talk isn’t about impressing—it’s about building trust. When paired with genuine interest and a relaxed presence, it becomes one of the most powerful tools for growing your business network.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
With over 25 years of experience in the business world, I started on the ground floor—right where you are now.
Expanding your presence in the business community starts with showing up—at networking events, school business groups, local meetups, alumni functions, or online groups. But it’s small talk, handled well, that turns casual encounters into lasting connections.
The key is to be curious and approachable. Openers like “What brought you here today?” or “What’s keeping you busy lately?” make conversations easy to start. From there, discussing shared interests, local news, or industry trends keeps things flowing naturally.
Rather than pushing your business right away, focus on listening and offering value—whether that’s an insight, a connection, or just a thoughtful exchange. If the conversation clicks, follow up on LinkedIn or over email with a short, friendly message.
Professional small talk isn’t about impressing—it’s about building trust. When paired with genuine interest and a relaxed presence, it becomes one of the most powerful tools for growing your business network.
Best Wishes,
Wyatt
Updated
Juan C.’s Answer
Get out there and mix it up with the community! Swing by open houses, drop in on local Chamber of Commerce events shake some hands and let people know who you are!
Updated
Marlene’s Answer
This is about building relationships, increasing visibility, and creating opportunities for collaboration. To start you need to define your objective - what are you looking for? Then you need to look for specific events in your area and optimize your online presence. You should also seek to partner with others tat have the same goals, volunteer and learn more of the specific topic/industry so you bring value and knowledge.
Hope this helps.
Hope this helps.
Updated
Matthew’s Answer
Hello!
You've asked specifically about small talk. Small talk can be awkward and nerve-wracking. Keep in mind that the professionals you are speaking with may also feel the same way! Here are my recommendations:
1. Start with contextual openers. For example: “Have you tried the coffee here before?” or “That was quite a session—what did you think?”.
These types of openers are low-pressure and easy to respond to, as suggested in the Harvard Business Review video 2.
2. Be interested, not just interesting. Ask open-ended questions like: “What brought you to this event?” or “What’s something exciting you’re working on?”. This keeps the focus on the other person and helps you find common ground.
3. Use active listening cues. Simple affirmations like “That’s interesting,” “Really?” or “Tell me more” show engagement and encourage the other person to keep talking.
4. Know when to pivot. If the conversation stalls or needs to move on, polite transitions like “Shall we get started?” or “Let’s circle back to the agenda” help maintain professionalism without awkwardness.
5. Avoid taboo topics. Stick to safe, neutral subjects like travel, hobbies, or recent events. Avoid politics, religion, or personal finances unless you know the person well.
Hope this is helpful!
Matt
You've asked specifically about small talk. Small talk can be awkward and nerve-wracking. Keep in mind that the professionals you are speaking with may also feel the same way! Here are my recommendations:
1. Start with contextual openers. For example: “Have you tried the coffee here before?” or “That was quite a session—what did you think?”.
These types of openers are low-pressure and easy to respond to, as suggested in the Harvard Business Review video 2.
2. Be interested, not just interesting. Ask open-ended questions like: “What brought you to this event?” or “What’s something exciting you’re working on?”. This keeps the focus on the other person and helps you find common ground.
3. Use active listening cues. Simple affirmations like “That’s interesting,” “Really?” or “Tell me more” show engagement and encourage the other person to keep talking.
4. Know when to pivot. If the conversation stalls or needs to move on, polite transitions like “Shall we get started?” or “Let’s circle back to the agenda” help maintain professionalism without awkwardness.
5. Avoid taboo topics. Stick to safe, neutral subjects like travel, hobbies, or recent events. Avoid politics, religion, or personal finances unless you know the person well.
Hope this is helpful!
Matt
Updated
Terietta’s Answer
Be thoughtful about who you choose to connect with and understand your reasons for doing so. Remember, connections can be made on the same level, not just with those above you. Building relationships with peers who share your goals and interests is a fantastic way to learn and grow together.
Updated
shiv’s Answer
To branch out effectively, first identify your skills and goals. Then, create a strong LinkedIn profile and connect with as many people as possible in both your current and desired industries. This will help LinkedIn's algorithm suggest relevant connections and updates. Focus on joining one or two key communities to make an impact and build your network, which can help advance your career or job search.
Updated
Nancy’s Answer
Hi there!
It sounds like you're just starting out in your career. Getting involved in community activities, internships, and work will help you become a better communicator. When you're ready to look for a job in business, there are lots of ways to gain experience. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, and check out the courses and resources available there to help you learn about different roles.
Best of luck!
It sounds like you're just starting out in your career. Getting involved in community activities, internships, and work will help you become a better communicator. When you're ready to look for a job in business, there are lots of ways to gain experience. Make sure your LinkedIn profile is up-to-date, and check out the courses and resources available there to help you learn about different roles.
Best of luck!
MaryAnn White
Sr. Director, Product Manager for a Silicon Valley high tech company
3
Answers
Updated
MaryAnn’s Answer
Hi Edwin,
If you're looking to connect and interact with business professionals, consider these options:
- Career Fairs: Attend these events at universities and colleges to meet employers, explore job opportunities, and network with industry experts.
- Alumni Networks: Use alumni associations to connect with graduates in your field for mentorship and networking.
- Internship Programs: Internships provide hands-on experience and help you build relationships with industry professionals
- LinkedIn: Create a LinkedIn profile, engage with content, join groups, and connect with professionals to grow your online network
To improve communication skills, try these:
- Business Etiquette Workshops: Many universities and organizations offer workshops on networking, dining manners, and professional communication
- Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer self-paced courses on business etiquette and networking
Hope this helps, and good luck!
maryann
If you're looking to connect and interact with business professionals, consider these options:
- Career Fairs: Attend these events at universities and colleges to meet employers, explore job opportunities, and network with industry experts.
- Alumni Networks: Use alumni associations to connect with graduates in your field for mentorship and networking.
- Internship Programs: Internships provide hands-on experience and help you build relationships with industry professionals
- LinkedIn: Create a LinkedIn profile, engage with content, join groups, and connect with professionals to grow your online network
To improve communication skills, try these:
- Business Etiquette Workshops: Many universities and organizations offer workshops on networking, dining manners, and professional communication
- Online Courses: Platforms like Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer self-paced courses on business etiquette and networking
Hope this helps, and good luck!
maryann
Updated
Mike’s Answer
The best thing you can do is really listen to others. It's common for us to answer quickly or interrupt, but it's much better to listen carefully, think, and then respond. Getting involved in your community by volunteering or shopping at local businesses can also help you connect with others.
Updated
Pietro’s Answer
That's a very interesting question. I would start by reading the biographies of famous people who work or have worked in your area of interest. This will help you understand how they achieved success, what their values, principles, and motivational beliefs were, and what motivated them most to achieve their goals. I would start by setting myself a clear medium-term goal and then checking day by day whether I am making progress towards that goal or moving away from it. A book I recommend, which helped me a lot, is Unlimited Power by Anthony Robbins. Good Luck
Updated
Erin’s Answer
Hi there! You're doing a fantastic job taking the initiative! To boost your connections, try checking out local networking events. Most fields have these gatherings, and they’re a great way to meet professionals and practice casual conversations. You can find events by following LinkedIn accounts related to your interests. If there’s a local group, be sure to join!
Be ready to chat about current trends in your field and share some personal stories. People appreciate curiosity and good listening skills. If you're not comfortable speaking, being attentive and engaged is very valuable. Many people at these events love to give advice.
After meeting someone, connect with them on LinkedIn to keep in touch. You can also use Meetup to find more casual ways to meet people nearby. If small talk is a challenge, consider online programs that offer help. Toastmasters is a wonderful option if you want to improve your public speaking in a relaxed, fun setting.
You're on the right track—keep it up!
Be ready to chat about current trends in your field and share some personal stories. People appreciate curiosity and good listening skills. If you're not comfortable speaking, being attentive and engaged is very valuable. Many people at these events love to give advice.
After meeting someone, connect with them on LinkedIn to keep in touch. You can also use Meetup to find more casual ways to meet people nearby. If small talk is a challenge, consider online programs that offer help. Toastmasters is a wonderful option if you want to improve your public speaking in a relaxed, fun setting.
You're on the right track—keep it up!
Updated
Bill’s Answer
Look for groups or organizations that catch your interest and become a great listener. When you are respectful and engaging, people will want to help you and guide you. Even in today's virtual world, attending some in-person events is important for building your professional skills and network.
Updated
Philippe’s Answer
Building relationships often starts with small talk, and while it might seem challenging, it's definitely doable. A great way to begin is by staying informed about current events. This knowledge can help you connect with others in many ways. Try reading headlines or subscribing to newsletters like The Morning Brew, The Hustle, or James Clear's updates. These resources can give you quick insights into interesting topics, making small talk easier and more enjoyable. You've got this!
Theresa Collier
Account Management / B2B Sales / Relationship Management
5
Answers
Updated
Theresa’s Answer
Hi Edwin, this is such a GREAT question!
When branching out into the business community, it's so easy to get caught up in the "what should I say?" The fear of saying the wrong thing can hold you back, leaving you standing in the corner. My best advice is to just put yourself out there, by attending networking events, joining chambers and groups of interest for your career choice. You can find these groups by googling your area, joining LinkedIn.
Small talk, starts with a simple hello, and "how did you hear about this event". I've found the next best thing to do then, is to listen to the response and build upon that, asking additional questions and sharing your responses to the same questions.
Sample Response: Oh wow, that's very interesting...I found out through ABC and decided to come to meet others interested in the same thing.
Where do you work?
Keep it simple. Don't think too much, and let it flow naturally. The more people you approach...the easier it gets!! I hope this helps ;)
When branching out into the business community, it's so easy to get caught up in the "what should I say?" The fear of saying the wrong thing can hold you back, leaving you standing in the corner. My best advice is to just put yourself out there, by attending networking events, joining chambers and groups of interest for your career choice. You can find these groups by googling your area, joining LinkedIn.
Small talk, starts with a simple hello, and "how did you hear about this event". I've found the next best thing to do then, is to listen to the response and build upon that, asking additional questions and sharing your responses to the same questions.
Sample Response: Oh wow, that's very interesting...I found out through ABC and decided to come to meet others interested in the same thing.
Where do you work?
Keep it simple. Don't think too much, and let it flow naturally. The more people you approach...the easier it gets!! I hope this helps ;)
Updated
Thomas’s Answer
One of the most important things you can do to drive success is build relationships with people. A network of relationships gives you insight to different perspectives and also a wider view of the business world. When people see value in you as a relationship, they are willing to help you and you gain more access to information that can drive your own success. Go out into the world and meeting people - both online and in person. You can't underestimate the value of a face-to-face meeting.
While enhancing small talk capability is always good, I recommend you also find topics that interest you, and become knowledgeable in them. For example, if you love to talk about Football, know the teams, players, recent happenings, and form your own perspective. This will make you an interesting conversationalist with a point of view.
While enhancing small talk capability is always good, I recommend you also find topics that interest you, and become knowledgeable in them. For example, if you love to talk about Football, know the teams, players, recent happenings, and form your own perspective. This will make you an interesting conversationalist with a point of view.