The Art of Small Talk and Networking

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 Committment

Weekly Time Committment

60 Minutes/Week

Duration

No. of Weeks

3

Leader Behaviors

This course strengthens your skills in the following leader behaviors:

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)

Register your team for this course for free!

Leader Behaviors

This course strengthens your skills in the following leader behaviors:

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Frequently asked questions

What can I expect from a networking training course?

A networking training course helps you develop interpersonal skills, build confidence in conversations, and form meaningful connections in both professional and social settings.

Is networking skills training suitable for introverts?

Yes, networking skills training is particularly helpful for introverts by providing strategies and structured approaches to make small talk and networking more natural and less intimidating.

What does smalltalk training involve?

Smalltalk training includes practice in starting conversations, finding common ground, active listening, and exiting discussions gracefully—skills essential for networking success.

Do participants receive certification for completing the networking skills course?

Yes, participants receive a certificate upon completing the networking skills course, validating their improved communication and relationship-building abilities.

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