Beyond Small Talk: How to Master ‘Medium Talk’
When we think of small talk, we often think of surface-level exchanges — the weather, “how are you?” pleasantries, or what we had for lunch. While these exchanges serve a purpose, they rarely lead to the connections and meaningful relationships we seek. Jumping straight into deep conversations can also feel awkward, or even invasive, especially if there’s no strong bond yet. So, what’s the answer? “Medium Talk.”
What is Medium Talk?
Medium Talk is that sweet spot between small talk and deep, personal conversations. It’s a conversational middle ground that allows people to share more than just surface details but without diving into deeply personal territory too soon. It’s ideal for building rapport, trust, and comfort, creating a foundation for deeper conversations down the road.
Examples of Medium Talk Topics:
Hobbies and Interests: “What’s something you’ve been enjoying lately?” or “Are you working on any personal projects these days?”
Movies, Books, and Shows: “Have you watched anything interesting recently?” This gives people a chance to share opinions, which can reveal a bit more about their personality.
Pet Peeves or Fun Complaints: “What’s something small that annoys you more than it should?” Lighthearted gripes can spark laughter and bring out relatable quirks.
Travel Stories and Dreams: “If you could go anywhere right now, where would you go?” or “Do you have any funny travel stories?”
Goals and Aspirations: “Is there anything new you’re hoping to learn or try?” This opens the door to discussing ambitions without delving into highly personal dreams or pressures.
How to Master Medium Talk:
Start with Curiosity: Approach the conversation with genuine curiosity about the other person’s thoughts and experiences. Frame questions that invite them to share something about themselves without feeling too vulnerable.
Share Small Bits About Yourself: If they answer a question, share a little about yourself in return. This makes the conversation feel balanced and encourages them to keep engaging.
Build on Their Responses: If they mention something interesting, ask a follow-up question or share a similar experience. This shows you’re listening and interested.
Watch for Cues: Not everyone is comfortable with every topic. If they give short answers or seem disengaged, it’s okay to gently steer the conversation toward another topic.
Keep It Light: Medium talk is about comfort and ease. Avoid controversial or potentially polarising topics unless you know the person well enough to gauge how they’d respond.
Why Medium Talk Matters:
Mastering medium talk helps create a warm, welcoming social environment where people feel safe enough to share. It’s perfect for turning acquaintances into friends and for making people feel comfortable, setting the stage for more meaningful connections down the road. Over time, these “medium” conversations build a foundation of trust and familiarity that naturally leads to deeper discussions.