How to Overcome Your Fear of Small Talk as a Tech Manager
Hey fellow tech managers,
I know what you’re thinking. “Small talk? That’s for people who don’t have anything better to do.” But hear me out. Small talk is actually a valuable skill for tech managers to have.
Why? Because small talk can help you:
Build relationships with your employees. Small talk is a great way to get to know your employees on a personal level. This can help you build trust and rapport, which can lead to better communication and collaboration.
Create a positive atmosphere in the workplace. Small talk can help to break the ice and create a more relaxed and friendly atmosphere in the workplace. This can make work more enjoyable for everyone.
Identify potential problems. Small talk can give you insights into your employees’ thoughts and feelings. This can help you identify potential problems early on, so you can take steps to address them.
So if you’re a tech manager who’s afraid of small talk, don’t worry. You’re not alone. But with a little practice, you can overcome your fear and use small talk to your advantage.
Here are a few tips to help you get started:
Start small. Don’t try to have a deep conversation right away. Start by making small talk with people you know well, and then gradually work your way up to talking to strangers.
Focus on the positive. When you’re making small talk, try to focus on positive things. Talk about your interests, your hobbies, or something you’re excited about. This will help you to relax and feel more comfortable in the conversation.
Be yourself. Don’t try to be someone you’re not. Just be yourself and let your personality shine through. This will make you more approachable and likable, and it will help you to connect with people on a personal level.
Ask questions. A great way to start a conversation is to ask questions. This shows that you’re interested in the other person and that you want to learn more about them.
Listen actively. When someone is talking to you, really listen to what they’re saying. This shows that you’re paying attention and that you care about what they have to say.
Be respectful. Even if you don’t share the other person’s interests, be respectful of their opinions. This will help you to build rapport and make the conversation more enjoyable for both of you.
And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes when they’re learning something new. So don’t let this discourage you. Just keep practicing and you’ll eventually get better at it.
So there you have it. A few tips to help you overcome your fear of small talk and use it to your advantage. Now go out there and start talking to people!
I hope this helps!
Itay Tech coach
