Small Talk with Colleagues

Goal Have short, friendly conversations at break time. Small talk builds good relationships at work. Safe topics: the weekend, the weather, sport, food, holidays, the drive to work. Avoid at first: salary, religion, politics, someone's age or weight.

STARTING A CONVERSATION

How was your weekend?
Hot one today, isn't it?
Did you watch the footy?
Got any plans for the long weekend?

KEEPING IT GOING answer + add + ask

Don't just say "Good." Give a little more, then ask back.
"Good, thanks. We went to the lake with the kids. How about you?"

DIALOGUE

Jess Morning! How was your weekend?

Tran Pretty good, thanks. I finally finished painting the fence. You?

Jess Quiet one. Just caught up on sleep after nights.

Tran Fair enough. Are you back on days now?

Jess Yeah, for two weeks. Thank goodness.

ENDING POLITELY

Anyway, I'd better get back to it.
Good chatting -- catch you later.

PRACTICE

Answer each question using "answer + add + ask":

How was your weekend?
Busy day?
Got any holidays coming up?

SAMPLE ANSWER for 1: "Really nice. My cousin visited from Perth. Did you do anything fun?"

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