The Art of Small Talk: How to Build Rapport with Interviewers

Introduction

Small talk is often overlooked in job interviews, but small talk plays a crucial role in building rapport with interviewers. When done well, small talk can set a positive tone, ease nerves, and create a lasting impression. Mastering the art of small talk can give you an edge over other candidates by helping you establish a personal connection with your interviewer.

Why Small Talk Matters in Interviews

Small talk serves multiple purposes beyond just filling the silence before an interview officially begins. It helps to:

Build rapport – Establishing a connection can make the interview feel more conversational and less transactional.

Showcase soft skills – Communication, emotional intelligence, and adaptability are critical qualities employers look for.

Reduce tension – Engaging in light conversation can help calm both you and the interviewer, leading to a more natural discussion.

Leave a positive impression – People tend to remember those they’ve had pleasant conversations with.

How to Make Effective Small Talk

1. Be Prepared with Conversational Starters

Having a few safe, engaging topics in mind can make initiating small talk easier. Consider:

Current events (non-controversial) – "Did you see the latest tech announcement?"

Company-related topics – "I read about your company’s recent expansion. That must be exciting!"

Shared interests – If you find a commonality (e.g., alma mater, hobby), use it to spark a conversation.

2. Observe and Adapt

Pay attention to cues from your interviewer. Are they in a rush? Do they seem open to a casual chat? Adjust your level of small talk accordingly.

3. Keep It Light and Positive

Avoid heavy topics like politics, religion, or controversial news. Stick to safe subjects such as travel, hobbies, or industry trends.

4. Show Genuine Interest

Small talk isn’t just about filling time—it’s an opportunity to engage meaningfully. Ask follow-up questions and show curiosity about the interviewer’s responses.

5. Practice Active Listening

Nodding, maintaining eye contact, and giving verbal affirmations (e.g., "That’s interesting!" or "I hadn’t heard about that before!") show that you’re engaged in the conversation.

Small Talk Scenarios in Interviews

Before the Interview Starts

Scenario: You’re waiting for the interview to begin.

Example Conversation:

You: "Your office has a great view! Do you enjoy working in this part of the city?"

Interviewer: "Yes, it’s a great location with plenty of restaurants nearby."

You: "That must be nice for lunch breaks! Any favorites you’d recommend?"

During the Interview (Transition Moments)

Scenario: Moving from introductions to formal questions.

Example Conversation:

Interviewer: "Before we dive in, how’s your day been so far?"

You: "It’s been great, thanks! I actually had time for a morning coffee at my favorite spot. How about you?"

At the End of the Interview

Scenario: Wrapping up the conversation.

Example Conversation:

You: "Thank you again for your time today. I really enjoyed our conversation!"

Interviewer: "Likewise!"

You: "Before I go, do you have any favorite aspects of working here? I’d love to hear what makes this team special."

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Forcing small talk – If the interviewer isn’t engaging, don’t push it.

Talking too much about yourself – Keep the conversation balanced.

Bringing up controversial topics – Stick to neutral, positive subjects.

Sounding rehearsed – Small talk should feel natural, not scripted.

Conclusion

Small talk is a powerful tool in job interviews that can help you build rapport, showcase your personality, and create a more enjoyable interaction. By preparing conversational topics, adapting to the interviewer’s cues, and practicing active listening. This is how you can make a great first impression and increase your chances of landing the job. The next time you have an interview, embrace small talk as an opportunity to connect and stand out!