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Because “So, how’s your week going?” Can Change Everything
Whether you’re walking a client to your Exec’s office, stuck in a lift with the CEO, or making conversation at a networking event, small talk matters. Here’s how to turn those awkward silences into strategic moments:
- Prep 2–3 Go-To Topics in Advance. Think industry news, local events, or even a good restaurant rec. When you’re escorting a stakeholder from reception, having a neutral topic ready can break the ice fast.
- Listen First, Speak Second. You don’t need to impress, just show you’re present. Whether you’re in a lift with a senior leader or mingling at an event, a simple “How has your week been?” goes a long way.
- Use Context Clues. At a work event or networking session? Reference the setting: “Have you been to one of these before?” “What brings you here today?”
- Create a Loop for Future Chats. Find something you can follow up on - “Let me know if you try that place!” or “Hope you enjoy that holiday!” It builds rapport for next time.
- You Belong in the Room. You may be the only EA at the event, but you’re not “just” there to make small talk. You’re representing yourself, your Executive and your team. Show up with confidence.
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You know what a good schedule should look like – space to think, time to get work done, and meaningful priorities – but every time you try to help, the changes get swept aside. You add buffer time, and it gets filled. You ask for agendas, and people ignore the request. Your Executive keeps an open door and says yes to everything because they don’t feel they can say no.
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As Assistants, we know how busy and fast-paced our environments can be. It’s easy to overlook the importance of communication and the critical role it plays in how we are perceived and how we connect with others. Communication truly bridges our thoughts, emotions, and intentions with the world around us.
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Advanced EA Communications Masterclass
5th September, 10:00AM ET | 3:00PM BST
In this masterclass, you’ll gain the knowledge, tools, and confidence to leverage the latest technology and AI solutions in your role. Our interactive training will empower you to harness the power of AI and other tools specifically for EAs.
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Orai
Orai is the AI-powered speech coach app helping professionals sound more confident, whether you're giving a big presentation or making small talk in the lift. Orai offers instant, private feedback on pacing, filler words, clarity, and confidence. With just 5 minutes a day, you can build powerful oratory skills, track your progress, and get personalised lessons tailored to your speaking style. Trusted by expert coaches and public speaking professionals, Orai is ideal for Executive Assistants who want to elevate their communication and make every conversation count.
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When you’re bouncing between meetings and managing a million moving parts, small talk can feel… well, small. But it’s actually a power move, a way to build relationships, ease tension, and subtly raise your visibility.
This week is about reclaiming a little bit of that confidence and creating connections on your terms.
Pick One Opportunity to Prep For
Look ahead at your week. Is there a moment where small talk might come up? Try planning for just one of these:
- Walking a stakeholder from reception to the boardroom
- A quick lift ride with a senior leader
- That networking event you're attending solo
- Grabbing a coffee before a team meeting
Don’t aim for magic. Just look for a doable moment.
Plan a Conversation Starter
Write it down. Yep, actually write out what you might say. Try something like:
- “Have you been to this event before?”
- “Busy week for you too?”
- “I heard your team just launched that new project—how’s it going?”
When you have one ready, you’ll feel 10x more confident when the moment comes.
Reflect + Repeat
After it happens (or doesn’t—that’s okay too), check in with yourself:
- Did it go better than expected?
- Would you try a different opener next time?
- Did it shift how you felt in the room?
Small talk becomes easier when it's your strategy, not a stressor. Share your wins in the EA Campus Community so we can celebrate them with you and inspire others to do the same.
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September 5th, 2025 @ 10.00am ET | 3:00pm GMT
EA Communications Masterclass
Led by award-winning facilitator Laura Thomson-Staveley, this session will equip you with practical tools to influence without authority, handle challenging conversations with calm clarity, and show up as a trusted partner at the highest level. Book now>>>
September 16th, 2025 @ 10.00am ET | 3:00pm GMT
Collaborative Assistant Masterclass
In this masterclass, you will explore the intricacies of effective collaboration, strategic thinking, and proactive support, all designed specifically for the unique challenges of Executive Assistant roles. Book now>>>
September 18th, 2025 @ 11.00am ET | 4:00pm GMT
Free Webinar: Landing Your Message
This webinar will provide practical strategies to help you communicate effectively across all levels of your organization - whether you’re collaborating with colleagues, engaging with clients, or briefing busy executives. Book now>>>
September 26th, 2025 @ Live over 24 hours
Lead Virtual Summit
This Summit will empower Assistants with the skills to become influential leaders and strategic partners. Learn how to lead projects, manage up, influence decision-making, and work more strategically with your Executive. Book now>>>
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We’d love to hear from you!
Share your feedback and tell us more about your work, goals, and how we can support your career growth. Take a quick survey and help us shape the future of The EA Campus.
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