Small Talk Research

Wiki definition:

"Small talk is an informal type of discourse that does not cover any functional topics of conversation or any transactions that need to be addressed.[1]"

"The ability to conduct small talk is a social skill"

Potential topics for small talk:

Pretty much anything to do with the weather is the majority of all small talk.

Small talk is essentially the opposite to this:

"The level of detail offered should not overstep the bounds of interpersonal space. When asked, "How are you?" by an acquaintance they do not know well, a person is likely to choose a simple, generalised reply such as, "Fine, thank you." In this circumstance it would probably not be appropriate for them to reply with a list of symptoms of any medical conditions they were suffering from.[11] To do so would assume a greater degree of familiarity between the two people than is actually the case, and this may create an uncomfortable situation."

I could exploit this idea of being completely inappropriate with small talk to achieve a light hearted and humorous tone of voice.

It is quite interesting that female small talk generally consists more of compliments and focus on appearance whereas male small talk consists more of playful insults and put downs.

Small talk in business:
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/2857204/The-art-of-small-talk-can-help-clinch-a-deal.html





I have watched a few videos and documentaries that are based around small talk. This documentary is called 'The Lift' and is directed by Marc Isaacs in 2001.



It reminds you that the majority of people are considerate and interesting people that have their own problems and ambitions.
With my project I want to encourage starting conversations with strangers and finding out a little bit about them which seems to have got lost amongst the vas tinflux and development of technology.

After mind mapping potential avenues that the project could take me down, the areas that I was most interesting in developing further were designing for web and branding across a range of products.

The bar could feature an elevator and have vinyls to do with the topic etc.

I could also look into designing for bottles, wayfinding, t shirts, an app, website, coasters, toilets etc.