A regular reader recently asked about using small talk while networking. My response was short and simple – just say ‘NO’ to small talk. It doesn’t help you that much. Go for ‘Big Talk’ instead.
Networking Conversations
Your Elevator Speech Revisited
(A business reporter recently asked for my comments on ‘Elevator Pitches’. I was happy to share my expertise and experience and a summary of our conversation follows. )
FYI – I did indicate that I preferred ‘Elevator Speech‘ to ‘Elevator Pitch’. ‘Pitch‘ sounds like you’re trying to sell something. No one likes to be sold to. ‘Speech’ sounds like you want to share some information. Even though the difference in connotation is subtle, it can impact the mindset of the person doing it.
Just Say ‘No’ to Small Talk
A reporter recently asked for suggestions on appropriate small talk at networking events. I surprised him by saying that small talk really didn’t work that well and to focus on Big Talk instead. The rest of my rant …