But let’s be honest, it’s also pretty boring. According to science too much small talk robs us of not only more meaningful conversations, but also deeper levels of connection and happiness.

about 30 seconds into every conversation? If you're like most people ... Over time, I've discovered that the key — and often missing — ingredient for better small talk is relatability. In my book, ...

In addition to cultural context, one’s perception of small talk and propensity for engaging in it can be influenced by factors including, but not limited to, personality traits, degree of social ...

The science says not. A 2010 study in the journal Psychological Science found that the higher the percentage of conversation that is small talk, the lower the participants’ well-being ...

and it can feel like the only alternative is to stick with small talk. But let’s be honest, that can be painfully boring. Conversations, whether at holiday parties or other times of the year ...