Small talk often gets a bad rap. It can feel awkward, superficial and pointless at times — if you're doing it wrong. But it's one of the most powerful tools in your arsenal to build relationships, ...

Add Yahoo as a preferred source to see more of our stories on Google. Some people just have *it*—that effortless ability to hold a conversation, make people feel at ease, and keep things flowing ...

Ever had a moment where you're talking to someone and suddenly can't think of what to say next? It can be awkward. Small talk is the side salad of conversation: often overlooked, occasionally soggy, ...

Ending a small-talk conversation can be tricky business. You have other things to do — maybe you need to go back to your desk or have another call to make. Or perhaps you’re at a party and want to ...

Dear Miss Manners: I am a theater professional. My job involves giving honest (but hopefully never brutal) critiques of actors during the rehearsal process. My reputation for results and ...

Do you dread trading niceties with retail clerks and assorted other strangers when you are out in public? Do you go out of your way to avoid neighbors and co-workers so that you do not have to engage ...