You may watch in awe as others participate in small talk and casual conversation, but you have no idea how to go about it. There must be rules and specific behaviors that are expected during small talk. You struggle to understand the skills that are necessary in order to initiate, participate in and end a conversation in the manner that others do. If this describes you, then you might find this guide useful!

In this book, we will discuss the different rules of engagement when you are conversing with others in a small talk situation. We will tailor the rules in easy steps for those who feel socially inept or awkward. The book is written to target any skill level and to improve social skills at any age.

We will explain what to do when you are uncomfortable or when there is an uncomfortable silence. We will explain how to exit the conversation at the end without giving others the impression that you are bored or boring. We will give you ways to communicate with others so that they experience you as being a great conversationalist and a good listener.

As with anything, engaging in conversation and small talk is a skill that needs to be practiced over and over until you start to get the hang of it. By using these easy to master skills listed in this guide, you will be able to invite yourself into a conversation and participate, which will start to build your confidence with each successful step in interacting with others. People aren't naturally born with socializing skills - every baby must learn them from their role models and their caregivers in the early parts of their life. Small talk skills are just like learning skills to ride a bike or to tie your shoelaces! But it's never too late to get started!