I just read a Forbes article offering "eight tips to master the art of small talk" and it was horrid.

#1: use positive self-talk to reduce anxiety.

Yeah that doesn't help.

#2: don't forget there's a reason for small talk.

Yeah duh there's a reason but that doesn't mean it's not inefficient and often useless.

#3: show interest in the other person
#4: ask questions
#5: be verbose
#6: ask verbose questions

Could've just said "adhere to stereotypical politeness guidelines" and covered all four in one point but we needed padding, I guess?

#7: act like extroverts

There we go, finally saying it outright.

#8: do #1

Wow, great article. 10/10. My life has been greatly improved.