Effective Conversation Starters for Interviews

You've polished your resume, rehearsed your STAR stories, and even picked out the perfect outfit. But there's one element of the interview process that often catches candidates off guard, small talk.

Yes, that seemingly trivial chit-chat at the beginning or end of an interview can play a significant role in shaping your first impression. Let's explore why small talk matters, how to navigate it effectively, and what pitfalls to avoid.

The Psychology Behind Small Talk

Small talk isn’t just something to pass the time; it’s a helpful way to break the ice and build a connection. According to Patrick Downes, assistant professor of management at the University of Kansas School of Business, engaging in small talk can lead to more positive social emotions and a sense of connection.

In the context of a job interview, this rapport-building can set the tone for a more relaxed and open conversation, allowing both parties to engage more authentically.

Conversational Gold: Topics That Work

When you're making small talk during an interview, the key is to be approachable and relatable without oversharing. Stick to topics that are light, friendly, and universally agreeable:

• Industry Insights: Briefly mentioning a recent, non-political event in your industry or something impressive the company has achieved shows genuine interest and that you're engaged with their world.
• Shared Ground: Commenting on the office space, the building's architecture, or a common experience like the commute (e.g., "Glad I beat the morning rush!") can quickly break the ice and build upon a shared experience.
• Light Personal Interests: A quick, positive mention of a hobby like hiking, reading, or a favorite local coffee shop can offer a glimpse into your personality beyond your professional experience. For instance, "I went hiking at the state park over the weekend—it's one of my favorite ways to clear my head."

Navigating the No-Go Zones: Topics to Avoid

While friendliness is encouraged, some topics are strictly off-limits in an interview setting. To keep things professional and positive, steer clear of:

• The Big Three: Politics, religion, and deeply personal issues are highly sensitive and can instantly create discomfort.
• Personal Dramas: Family problems, health concerns, or financial woes are simply not appropriate for this professional context. Keep the conversation focused on your professional self.
• Negative Nancys: Never, ever bad-mouth past employers, colleagues, or jobs. It reflects poorly on you and raises red flags for the interviewer.

Find Your Balance Between Friendly and Professional

Getting the tone right in an interview is important. If you’re too formal, you might seem stiff, but if you’re too casual, you could come off as unprofessional. The best approach to finding your sweet spot is to sound like yourself while still being respectful. For example, if someone asks about your weekend, saying something like, “I went hiking at the park the other day it’s one of my favorite ways to relax,” is a great way to be friendly and appropriate at the same time. Someone that replies with simple answers like “It was fine.” isn’t giving the interviewer much to work with in terms of small talk.

The Lasting Impact of Good Small Talk

Studies show that small talk can significantly influence how you are viewed during an interview. Effective small talk can make you stand out from other candidates with similar qualifications, showcasing your interpersonal skills and cultural fit.

While your experience and qualifications matter, don’t underestimate the power of a good conversation. Small talk serves as a window into your communication style and can leave a lasting impression. Sometimes it's the little conversations that make the biggest impact.