“Big Fuss about Small-Talk” is a practical, recorded video course that helps you get genuinely comfortable starting and sustaining casual conversations. Led by effective communications coach and Distinguished Toastmaster Jeremiah Pradeep, the course shows what small‑talk really is, why it matters, and how it can transform your personal and professional relationships. Through simple frameworks and real‑world examples, you will learn how to start conversations, keep them flowing naturally, and use small‑talk as a powerful tool to build rapport, visibility, and influence at work.
In every workplace, opportunities often begin with a simple conversation. Many capable professionals still hesitate with informal chat in the corridor, before a meeting, or at a networking event. “Big Fuss about Small‑Talk,” part of Maven Academy’s Effective Communication series, is designed to remove that hesitation and show how small‑talk can become one of your most valuable communication skills.
Presented by effective communications coach and Distinguished Toastmaster Jeremiah Pradeep, this talking‑head video course demystifies small‑talk and makes it practical, comfortable, and purposeful. He addresses real concerns such as “What do I say?”, “Will I sound foolish?”, and “How do I keep a conversation going?” with clear, usable answers.
You will explore what small‑talk is really about, why it matters, and how simple topics – weather, work, hobbies, current events – can build trust and connection. Then you will learn how to get started even if you are shy, prepare safe topics, ask open‑ended questions, keep conversations flowing, handle awkward pauses, and exit politely. The course also covers body language, listening, and matching the other person’s tone so conversations feel genuine.
By the end, you will see small‑talk not as meaningless chatter but as a deliberate, authentic way to build relationships, trust, and influence—equipping you to approach everyday conversations with confidence.
