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Knowledge Hub

5 min read

Mastering The Art of Small Talk

Home and Leisure December 06, 2024

Ah, the festive season in South Africa—a time of braais, boerewors, beach trips, and, of course, endless Yada Yada. Whether you’re dodging a nosy aunt’s interrogation or engaging in awkward banter with that uncle who claims to know “a guy for everything,” small talk is practically a national sport this time of year.

Don’t sweat it, we’ve got tips that will help you chit-chat like a pro this holiday season.

1. What Happens After, "Howzit?"

Howzit, is a great icebreaker but what do you say after… here are a few options.

Make It Situational

Comment on something happening around you. At a festive gathering: “The decorations look amazing, don’t they?”

Go for a Light Compliment

“I love your outfit—it’s so festive!”

Laugh About Shared Struggles

“Traffic’s been wild felt like half of Gauteng was heading to Durban this morning!”

Let Them Lead the Way

If they say something intriguing in their response, dig a little deeper:

Them: “I’ve been super busy lately.”
You: “Busy with work or prepping for the holidays?”

2. Master the Braai Banter

As everyone gathers around a fire and argues about how to flip meat. Use this to your advantage:

“Is that boerie from Store A or Store B?” (A guaranteed debate starter.)
“Charcoal or gas—what makes the meat taste better?”
And if you really want to stir the pot, casually drop: “I heard someone made vegan wors.”

Even if you don’t care about the answers, you’ve got the group chatting, and that’s half the battle won.

3. Compliment the Snacks

Food is love; food is life—especially during the holidays. Compliments about the festive spread can instantly warm up a conversation:

“Wow, is this chutney on the gammon? Stunning!”
“Who brought the milk tart? It’s illegal for it to taste this good.”
“This potato salad is so good I might need a minute.”

4. Survive the Nosy Relatives

A festive gathering isn’t complete without someone asking life’s hardest questions:

“When are you getting married?”
“What happened to that nice girl/boy from last year?”
“Are you still in that...what’s it called… creative job?”

Your best bet? Turn the tables! “Auntie Grace, your love life sounds much more exciting—tell us what’s new!” Or deflect with humour: “Wow, you’re asking harder questions than my Grade 11 maths teacher!”

5. Disappearing Gracefully

If small talk becomes too much, head to the kitchen—nobody questions someone on “dishwashing duty.” Bonus points if you bring a plate of snacks on your way back.

Cheers to a festive season full of good vibes and even better conversation. Now go forth and talk small, but live large!