Small Talk

148 . the fine art of small talk
introduced to another person, or you can gracefully decline,
feeling positive about the offer.
A LITTLE APPRECIATION
GOES A LONG WAY
Ending a conversation by showing appreciation for
the interchange provides an upbeat way to leave on a positive
note. Thanking others for their time, expertise, or
the sheer joy of the conversation is always welcome. You
emanate poise and self-confidence when you bid adieu by
expressing your gratitude and praising your partner in
some way. This is accomplished in much the same way as
using a compliment to forward a conversation, and the
same rule applies: Be genuine. Done sincerely, offering
gratitude will produce a wave of goodwill and a positive
association with your name. Appreciation is a compliment
with closure. You’ve ended the conversation on a
personalized note, and both you and your partner separate
feeling good about each other. Some ways to do this
are shown here.