You talk to a lot of different people every day: your colleagues, your boss, a networking contact, a client, the CEO of your company, a room full of people—you get the idea. And you want to sound smart and competent in every scenario, right?
While, unfortunately, there isn’t one secret trick to passing the small-talk test or nailing a public speaking presentation, there are tons of ways to sharpen your communication skills so you make a great impression in every interaction.
The advice below will ensure that you present yourself with confidence regardless of the conversation you find yourself plumbing.
1. How to Ask Stupid Questions (Without Sounding Stupid)
No matter where you are in your career, you’ll probably have to ask what you think is a stupid question at some point. Here’s how to navigate that tricky query.
2. 9 Tips for Thinking On Your Feet When You’re Put on the Spot
Our expert career coaches give you their top tips for handling those times when you’re expected to offer your spontaneous opinion on a given topic.
3. There Are 4 Types of Communicators—and Knowing Which One You Are Will Only Help You
Being mindful of our own strengths—and weaknesses—is key to performing at the top of our game.
4. This Is it: Your Ultimate Public Speaking Cheat Sheet
By taking it back to basics, the infographic featured in this post offers advice that’ll help you make an impact through your words.
5. The 7 Best Tricks to Sounding Confident When You’re Not
We’ve all heard the phrase “fake it ’til you make it,” but how does this actually work?
Luckily, you don’t have to pretend to know what you’re talking about—you just need to follow the advice this author shares.
6. 7 Strategies That’ll Make it Easier for You to Talk in Front of a Group Without Wanting to Die
Sometimes you’re not just nervous; you’re really, really nervous. But don’t panic. We’ve got just the tips to help you overcome the anxiety that creeps in every time you need to be on your “A” game in front of others.
7. Your Foolproof Formula for Making Small Talk That Doesn’t Involve Awkward Silences
As professional skills go, small talk isn’t the most glamorous, but knowing how to hold a conversation will never go out of style.
8. 9 Great Conversation Starters for 9 Common Situations You’ll Encounter in Your Career
Spend less time worrying about how to open the conversation, and more time having one with your new co-worker, a senior colleague, or even the CEO.
9. 3 Easy Steps to Making Small Talk Suck Less
Are you getting tired of having the same conversation at every networking event or company party? Inject some energy back into your interactions by reinventing your approach to small talk.