Advice on socializing in "casual" professional settings (for an introvert)
Hi guys,
I'm an incoming S26 analyst, and I'd imagine I'm not that socially inept if I was able to network, land superdays, land an offer, etc.
I'm able to be outgoing in the interview environment but for two MM firms I interviewed with they had a social event to meet senior employees in a more casual setting afterwards. I struggled to keep the small talk going and I knew I was coming across as awkward especially as my social battery was dying (might have contributed to me not getting offers from them).
Any advice on how to be better at the small talk? I think another issue I have is that in the interview I have a blank space to answer but in a group conversation I struggle with getting talked over or knowing when I can get a word in without interrupting.
Thanks guys
Honestly comes with exposure. I usually wake up and just start random convos w people prior to the event (convenience store employees, front desk, random people, etc). Once u go around to these events a few times you realize the conversations are very similar so you'll end up either intentionally or unintentionally developing your 3-4 intro questions. If you want something a bit more tangible, Joe Rogan's speaking skills imo are very good and he actually breaks it down somewhere. speak slower, practice body language, eye contact, and stop viewing senior bankers as "senior" - like view them as your older neighbor or a friends parent or something (if u get what I'm saying - cuz to someone they actually are that) where ur still respectful but u can be a bit casual. Don't know for everyone else, but to me small talk is very much "use it or lose it" so just start incorporating it into your life little by little. Interns are always awkward and bankers know this so don't trip urself out too much.
Thanks for the response! Great advice and I'll definitely apply it in the future. Any advice on small talk conversation topics? I grew up with little discretionary spending so I have no experience travelling, going to restaurants/region specific events and I feel out of touch in those conversations.
I noticed topics became much easier after being well informed on several different industries (like just reading and knowing the niches in-and-out). News and current events are good especially if you have an intelligent opinion of it. Have some basic sports knowledge that can't go wrong. Talking about music can also go well. If you're in a non-NYC/Chi/SF area you can ask "first time in XX city" "what doyou think?" Sometimes the convo will just lead to something naturally. Also learn how to tell storys super well (like within 30 seconds) and mix that in to your conversations since more content means more openings for the other side to respond. don't think about it too hard ya know you'll be fine.
You likely are just in your own head and need to loosen up. Have a couple titos drinks before hand.
Laudantium quas et vero nulla. Sint deleniti sit autem nesciunt architecto quasi. Molestias consectetur necessitatibus qui fugiat. Voluptas perferendis et in aperiam quas aut.
Et necessitatibus ullam rerum est asperiores dolorum. Quis dolor sit ipsum dolor adipisci minus consectetur. Et ea enim culpa sunt.
See All Comments - 100% Free
WSO depends on everyone being able to pitch in when they know something. Unlock with your email and get bonus: 6 financial modeling lessons free ($199 value)
or Unlock with your social account...