Professional Networking and Small Talk Skills
Who is the course for?
This course will benefit leaders, managers, and team members who wish to improve and gain confidence in their interpersonal communication skills for business, networking, and social connection purposes.
Skill Level
Foundational
Time Commitment
Weekly Time Committment
60 Minutes/Week
Duration
3 Weeks
Leader Behaviors
This course strengthens your skills in the following leader behaviors:
- Collaborates and Promotes Teamwork
- Communicates
- Pursues Self-Development
- Takes Initiative
Course Overview
Effective leaders must be skilled in the ability to connect with people in the business social setting. Connection is essential to building quality business relationships externally and internally. It often begins with small talk and continues with effective networking.
In this course, we will explore how to tactfully communicate in a corporate social setting, build confidence by applying the art of small talk, and connect with new and known people through networking.
Completing this course will help you:
- Gain confidence in various social and business situations by applying effective networking skills.
- Initiate and maintain a conversation by utilizing the art of small talk.
- Understand electronic networking and use the best networking practices through social media.
Learning Path
Session 1 - An Overview: The Art of Small Talk and Networking
Small talk and networking have always been integral to building connections in the professional world, but over the years, social media has changed the way we approach relationships.
In this session, we will learn how the art of small talk and networking skills are needed for interpersonal skills development and how face-to-face communication has been largely replaced by Facebook, LinkedIn, and other social media interactions. We will explore how to adapt and maximize our networking skills in-person and online.
Virtual Session (30 minutes) + Online Journal (15 minutes) + Activity (15 minutes)
Session 2 - What Is Small Talk?
In this session, we will explore the components of small talk, including the skills needed to make small talk intentional with the goal of connection in mind. We will learn how to initiate a conversation, keep it going, and how to exit gracefully from the interaction at the appropriate time. Additionally, we will discuss the importance of following up with those with whom we interact.
Virtual Session (30 minutes) + Online Journal (15 minutes) + Activity (15 minutes)
Session 3 - What Are the Dynamics of Networking?
In this session, we will learn how to utilize electronic networking such as social media and best practices for participation in various platforms for maximum benefit. In addition, we will dive into how to join networking groups and how to optimize the value we are getting out of these groups.
Virtual Session (30 minutes) + Online Journal (15 minutes) + Activity (15 minutes)
Leader Behaviors
This course strengthens your skills in the following leader behaviors:
- Collaborates and Promotes Teamwork
- Communicates
- Pursues Self-Development
- Takes Initiative
Why people choose LEL for Leadership Development
The insights from this course have changed how I approach leadership. I now feel equipped to handle challenges more effectively and inspire my team every day.
An invaluable experience! The practical strategies and hands-on exercises helped me build strong leadership skills that I apply daily in my role.
Frequently asked questions
Can small talk and networking really be learned?
Yes. The course treats them as skills with clear steps: how to start a conversation, keep it going, exit gracefully, and follow up so a first meeting becomes a real connection.
Is this course helpful for introverts?
Yes. It gives structured, low-pressure approaches that make small talk and networking feel more natural and less draining.
Does it cover online and social media networking?
Yes. One session focuses on electronic networking, using LinkedIn and other platforms well, and getting value from networking groups.
Who should take the networking course?
Leaders, managers, and team members who want more confidence connecting with people for business and professional growth.
How long is the course?
Three weekly live sessions of about an hour each, facilitator-led, with practice between sessions.
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100% of program profits support March of Dimes.