Management Corner - The Art of Small Talk at Business Gatherings

Management Corner HP1000SS RIG-MOUNTED POST DRIVER

ULTRA HEAVY DUTY HIGH POWER-TO-WEIGHT RATIO ONE MAIN MOVING PART LOW-FLOW REQUIREMENT

THE ART OF SMALL TALK AT BUSINESS GATHERINGSUses less than 8 GPM Patented accumulator reduces recoil, adds 6” driver tool standard Near perfect center of gravity Highest hitting force per pound of tool Self lubrication prevents damage Closed circuit hydraulics creates no exhaust Drives wood and steel up to 6” diameter, guard rail and more Drives stakes, rods and pins Runs off of skid steer loaders and tractors Can be slung or hard-mounted 1 year parts and labor warranty

Now that COVID restrictions are being lifted across the country and meetings and events are beginning to take place in person again, it might be a good time to brush up on your conversational skills. Over the past year, the need for small talk at gatherings has been practically non-exist, but as events return, so to will the need for this social skill.

Small talk can make a big difference in conversation effectiveness. Although it is one of the most common forms of communication, many detest small talk and see it as an awkward gesture. However, small talk in a business setting can accomplish many tasks—easing tension, establishing a common factor, or forging a lasting business connection—without the need for profound speech or originality.

Effective small talk begins with the body, not the voice. Eye contact, coupled with a friendly smile, is a key part of any conversation, making the speaker appear approachable and attentive.

Whoever makes the first introduction looks confident and is positioned to guide the rest of the conversation. Questions or statements about the weather or event, as cliché as it sounds, are a great way to follow up initial introductions. A compliment also serves as a good startup to the discussion.

The tone of the conversation should be light and positive when searching for a shared interest. Common topics for small talk are movies, music, sports, books, travel, and hobbies. Knowledge of current events is an important tool for discussion, especially in the business world; however, one should avoid controversial topics—politics, religion, or off-color jokes—if it is unclear where the other person stands on these subjects.

Focus on the other person and listen intently to what he or she is saying. This will show respect for the speaker and lessen feelings of self-consciousness. Silence is not always a bad thing. Thoughtful pauses in the conversation are encouraged as they give all participants the opportunity to collect themselves and reflect on what has been said.

Before walking away from the other person, a simple, graceful exit line will politely close the conversation rather than just allowing it to dissipate. For example, you can say, “It’s been great talking with you! I really enjoyed hearing about…”

Small talk is a simple tool that can be used in any setting to create a lasting impression for both yourself and your business.

Dimensions: 40 x 18 x 12 (main body without quick-mount plate) Weight: 496 LB w/quick-mount plate & tool Pressure: 1650 PSI Flow: 5.5 - 7 GPM SKIDRIL P.O. Box 8041 Greensboro, NC 27419 Tel: 800-843-3745 Fax: 336-674-6690

Impact Energy: 350 Ft-lb