Many people think small talk gets in the way. But it can help writers build the relationships they want their readers to notice.

Let’s explore whether small talk belongs in a story, or if it’s a waste of time.

What is small talk?

Small talk is an informal conversation. It’s considered polite to engage in small talk with colleagues, acquaintances, and strangers.

Topics in small talk are often lighthearted, such as the weather or a pop culture trend. Even though small talk covers simple topics, it can help readers bond with the characters on the page.

The benefits of small talk

Deep conversations are great, but you usually can’t jump into them with someone you don’t know. Small talk has several benefits, such as:

• Acts as a great conversation starter.
• Feels emotionally good.
• Helps build a bond.
• Prevents awkward silences.

Tips for making small talk in a work-in-progress

Now that you know some benefits of small talk, let’s look at how writers can get better at it. It might not be deeply fulfilling, but it’s a good first step toward building deeper connections.

Select an existing scene, or create something brand new. Put the characters in a low-key situation, such as standing around the water cooler, taking public transportation together, or whatever suits your story’s setting.

Start by having one character ask open-ended questions that require more than a yes-or-no answer. Most people like talking about themselves, so asking how they are or what they’re up to is a good way to begin.

A character can talk about the event that they’re at or headed to, an unusual hobby, or a situation at work. Then see how far you can take the conversation.

Add an eavesdropper who has nothing to do with the scene; someone who completely misunderstands the whole conversation. Maybe it’s the characters’ meet-cute that you’ve had in the back of your head, but wasn’t necessarily key to the plot. Finally putting it down on paper might help a writer see how these characters met, and why they’re an enduring pair.

Writers can find a place for the generated material in the work-in-progress, or simply use it as a writing exercise. The more a writer can frolic in their characters’ world, the better the final draft can be.