"<p>Following our last blog, in which we presented you with <a href="https://www.devbrains.tn/blog/small-talk-6-easy-conversation-starters#Travel" target="_blank">6 Easy Conversation Starters</a>, I find it an obligation upon me to familiarize you with these 6 small talk topics that will ruin your conversation and end it before it starts. </p> <p>The topics you choose for that 5 minutes small talk before your business meeting are vital to the meeting's outcome. That is why you should be aware of these topics that you should avoid.</p> <p>If you do not have a clear idea about the definition of small talk, then I highly recommend that you read it <a href="https://www.devbrains.tn/blog/small-talk-6-easy-conversation-starters#Travel" target="_blank">here</a>.</p> <p> </p> <p>6 Small Talk Topics That Will End Your Conversation Before You Know It:</p> <h2>1- Religion</h2> <p>Religion one of the most "dangerous" topics to choose for starting a conversation with a stranger. </p> <p>Why? </p> <ul> <li>You can offend that person very easily, especially if they are agnostic or of another religion.</li> <li>Even if both of you are of the same religion, you may have a different point of view on certain points, which can escalate the conversation to a debate, or even worse, an argument!</li> <li>Religion is considered personal in several cultures, and it is not to be discussed with strangers, or acquaintances.</li> <li>Even if the person is religious, they may not want to speak about religion in a business meeting, or before it.</li> </ul> <p>Rule of thumb:</p> <p>Avoid speaking about religion, unless the other person explicitly mentions it. </p> <h2>2- Politics</h2> <p>Politics is rather a sensitive topic. Even with your close friends, you may get into a heated argument if you speak about politics. </p> <p>Although it is possible to discuss if people share your same views, it is recommended to avoid it, unless they bring it up, explicitly.</p> <p>Always make sure to research the meeting attendees before going, so that even if some political news is brought up in a conversation, you know what you should and should not say.</p> <h2>3- Money</h2> <p>It is common to ask someone what they do for a living; however, it is rude and inappropriate to ask about their salary.</p> <p>Why?</p> <ul> <li>It is, for most people, personal.</li> <li>The other person may have some financial problems.</li> <li>You may be seen as <strong>materialistic</strong>.</li> </ul> <p>Do not speak about your income either, or ask about their spendings, as this information is not to be discussed with people you have just met.</p> <h2>4- Appearance</h2> <p>It is common to tell your close friend, whom you know has been on a diet:</p> <p>"Wow! You have lost some weight!"</p> <p>However, saying that to a stranger can be considered rude and inappropriate as they may have some health problems. </p> <p>Also, avoid talking about "quick ways to lose/gain weight" or "grow hair" as it can be taken as an offense.</p> <h2>5- Intimate Relationships</h2> <p>This topic has no place in a business meeting. It is only to be brought up with your close friends whom you know very well.</p> <p>Asking the other person about their love life can be offensive, as they may not have a good one, or consider it as very private and see you as a nosy person.</p> <p>Do not talk about your love life either, business meetings are not for that, for sure.</p> <h2>6- Death</h2> <p>Death, sickness, and negative topics generally can easily ruin your discussion.</p> <p>Make sure not to mention the death of someone, or their/your sickness.</p> <p>Why?</p> <ul> <li>Many find it inappropriate</li> <li>It can cause distress to the person you're speaking to </li> <li>You can be seen as a pessimistic person, and who wants to do business with a pessimistic partner?</li> </ul> <h2>Conclusion</h2> <p>Choosing the right, appropriate topics to start a conversation, and avoiding the "touchy" ones, will help you make a smooth conversation starting with light small talk.</p> <p> </p> <p>What do you think? Do you have other conversation "enders"? Drop it in the comment section below.</p> <p>If you liked this blog, why not share it with your friends?</p>"
