A SMALL MATTER OF SMALL TALK..

I have always been one of those who stay ominously silent when stepping into an elevator. Even when with friends or family, the moment I step into an elevator, I transform into some kind of a stony faced ice sculpture. When flanked by strangers in an elevator, I feel a tad uncomfortable conversing with people, hence strictly responding with monosyllabic words, a nod or a ‘will answer later’ look. I recently read an article which said that Americans are supposed to be the masters of small talk. Well am no American, but still this finding was of no solace to me.

So I finally decided to take matters into my hand. I decided to observe how others have the presence of mind to talk to someone who they barely know from their neighbouring office. Moreover being in an elevator gives you a time limit that you have to strictly adhere to. You will only have a certain amount of time to say something that will make you sound smarter than you actually are and step out feeling great about yourself! Anything contrary to that can make you a living misery and you may step onto your floor telling yourself that you are never ever going talk in front of anything other than a mirror and unless, understandably, you have a loaded gun pointed at your head.

Amongst others, the most popular opening for small talk is ‘Oh My! This time, the summer is bad!’ or ‘The weather is just getting awful’. Especially in this part of the world where the heat is off the charts, the moment you remark about the weather, you can be assured of forming an instant bond with your fellow elevator mates! Other topics may include the traffic and briefly discuss about the congested roads and again very briefly moan about how you are already late for work. But please, oh please, do not overdo it coz you do not want to come across as a bellyacher. This will guarantee both a sympathetic and keen listener. The escalating rent, the local news, sports have also proved to be popular topics for small talk.

Well if you are not a fan of small talk, here is the best option for you! You can either step into the elevator and ask your elevator mate/s – ‘WHICH FLOOR?’, press the button and wait for your floor ( all the while blissfully devoid of the need for small talk ) or take the stairs!

So, happy small talking!