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Small talk in the West_Examples

Dear Network,
As promised, here are my examples:
United Kingdom - a fairly short (about 10 minutes) friendly conversation on neutral topics. Humor is almost obligatory, including jokes about yourself. Being reserved both in the words and expressions used and in the display of emotion. Very limited body language. Excessive directness in statements and any superlatives in conversation are discouraged.
Taboo topics: religion; politics; immigration; income, wages, sources of income; nursing homes.
United States - a short and easy conversation (5 to 15 minutes). Looks like an exchange of questions and answers. No long speeches or discussions are expected. Small talk - an important element in the negotiation process or as part of a business meeting- meant to melt the "ice" in communication and set the stage for later discussion of business topics. Emotional reactions to a joke or statement, laughter, smiles, loud speech, active body language, and gestures - all of this distinguishes small talk in this culture.
Taboo topics: religion; politics; politically incorrect statements; personal questions (age, marital status, health, salary).
Germany - a short, fairly formal conversation (about 5 minutes) before discussing the main business topic of the meeting. Germans are likely to opt for a direct and frank conversation. It is also very important for them to give the impression of a polite and well-mannered person. And at the same time a serious and reliable partner. No excessive gesticulation, broad gestures, or emotional statements.
Taboo topics: politics; World War II; Holocaust; family and personal (private) life issues.
Sweden - a short conversation on neutral topics (no more than 5 minutes). It is treated more as a necessary ritual in business communication. A discreet and rather formal exchange of questions and answers. Humor, jokes, sharp topics, long speeches - leave all this out of the small talk, especially if you are just starting to build a business relationship with a Swedish partner.
Taboo topics: religion; politics; family and everything that relates to private life; the tax system.
1 минута