6 英语

6.1 week2

A. How to start a conversation

  1. Opening lines(开场白) = icebreakers

    positive (not complaints)

    ex:

    1. compliments

    2. news events

    3. weather

  2. Be sincere, respectful, interested

B. How to keep a conversation going

  1. Asking questions = Elaboration technique

    1. don’t ask questions requiring just a yes or no answer
    2. ask questions showing your genuine interest
    3. ask questions based on the last thing a person says

  2. Seven tips

    1. be aware of body & facial language

    2. don’t gossip

    3. cultivate a wide range of topics

    4. have a sense of humor

    5. don’t interrupt

    6. be enthusiastic and upbeat

      (ethnic vs ethic vs enthusiastic)

    7. be flexible in your point of view

  3. Topics to avoid

    1. Politics – Political opinions can be polarizing, especially in casual settings. It’s better to steer clear of deep political discussions unless you’re in a setting where it’s appropriate or both parties are open to it.
    2. Income or Wealth – Asking about someone’s salary, financial situation, or how much they earn can be seen as intrusive or inappropriate, especially if you don’t have a close relationship.
    3. Gender and Sexuality – Discussions about gender identity or sexual orientation can be sensitive. It’s important to be respectful and avoid assumptions or comments that might be seen as intrusive or inappropriate.
    4. Academic Performance – Talking about grades or student performance can be awkward and potentially make people feel uncomfortable, especially if someone is struggling in their studies or feels insecure about their achievements.
    5. Family Matters – Questions about someone’s marital status, children, or family dynamics can be too personal. Not everyone wants to discuss their family situation, especially in casual settings.
    6. Private Life or Relationships – Questions about someone’s romantic life, ex-partners, or relationship issues are usually best avoided, as they can make someone feel awkward or exposed.

C. How to end a conversation

  1. break eye contact
  2. use transition words
  3. recap (sum up) what was said
  4. give handshake

D. Why People make small talk

There are a few different reasons why people use small talk. The first and most obvious, is to break an uncomfortable silence. Another reason, however, is simply to fill time. Some people make small talk in order to be polite.

E. What I learn today

  1. I have nothing to add. 我没什么要补充的了
  2. I want to think about it again. 我还需要再思考一下
  3. privacy disclosure 隐私泄露