Conversation Topics

In case you're a little uncertain about what to talk about here's a quick post on what's worked for me...

Firstly, it's generally a good idea to steer clear of politics. The UK media is packed with outrageous political stories from Russia but many Russians are uncomfortable talking about certain topics - especially with a stranger. Disappointing... But there's plenty more to chat about.

It's entertaining to address the idea of stereotypes with a Russian. You can mention the vodka swilling, borscht guzzling, bear wrestling image that's popular in Western culture and in return they'll usually offer up some fairly fruity opinions on England (or wherever you may be from). Some seem to cling to the romantic idea that the whole country grinds to a halt at 5pm to convene for tea...

From here the conversation can naturally spill into other topics. I find that by trying to define English culture I talk a bit about music, for example. They'll usually have a lot to say about what Russia's really like and it's often fascinating. 

Enjoy your chat! 

Послание русским:

В отличие от наших носителей английского языка, о вас мы знаем немного, но уверены, что мы вам можем помочь. На прошлой неделе мы запустили новый проект Talkster.ru, потому что мы поняли, что миллионы русских не могут, но очень хотят разговаривать на английском. Большинство из вас знакомы с основами английской грамматики и имеют неплохой словарный запас. Но, к сожалению, вы никогда не имели возможности использовать ваши знания в разговоре, в том числе и потому, что, когда надо говорить, вы просто немеете. Ваши учителя английского в школе не были англичанами. Они знали все правила, но не могли научить вас заказать пиво в Лондонском пабе или начать с кем-нибудь разговор. На прошлой неделе мы решили найти для вас носителей языка, которые не прочь с вами поболтать. И забавно, что те, кого мы нашли - студенты из университетов, в которых мы сами же когда-то учились в Великобритании! 

Итак, как же они смогут тебе помочь? Они молоды, приветливы и умны, и специально выделили время, чтобы с тобой поболтать. На этой неделе поговорить можно будет только в четверг с 20:00 до 20:45 или с 21:00 до 21:45 (по Московскому времени).

Забронировать время можно до 12:00 четверга. Тебе придется заплатить за разговор 15$, в течение которого твой собеседник будет тебя  внимательно слушать и поправлять. Говорить можно на любые темы!

Думаешь, англичане закрытые и необщительные люди? Позвони и проверь!

Chatting on Talkster - Where to Begin?

Spinning out a conversation for 45 minutes with someone you've never met is nowhere near as scary as it seems... In fact, it should be a breeze if you stick to a few key principles.

1. The First Chat - This is probably the easiest! Much of the time is taken up by introductions and getting to know what you're each interested in. Of course, it won't all be that so you'll need to have some good chat material up your sleeve even on day 1.

2. Get Them Talking! - They're paying for a chat with you - not a monologue! It's vital to ask them questions that they can develop on. Ask them opinions on topics and then get them to explain those opinions. Some will be very forthcoming and some will need a lot of jostling to give answers of more than three or four words ("I don't know" being a classic...). Try to catch yourself if you've started rambling about your favourite Big Brother series.

3. Be Prepared - Much like an a eager boy scout you should stick to this motto. A lot of us think we can make a career out of 'winging it' but, believe me, there are few things more awkward than petering out of chat with 25 minutes still to go. Asking exactly what it is they like about their dog doesn't buy you much time... So, whizz through the news beforehand, sweep through facebook for interesting links and even note down interesting stuff you've encountered that week. Remember: you can keep tabs open on your browser as you're chatting over Skype.

Enjoy your chatting!

Getting Paid for Chat: A Message to the Natives

Talkster.ru is now a week old. Russians will pay to talk to native English speakers and we're pretty sure that you'll talk for a fee - that much we know from learn2.

The challenge this week is to work out the parameters for that conversation. How much do you want to get paid for a 45-minute conversation and are you worth it?

If Russians are going pay to talk to you, they'll want something back. It's not easy to put a price on a conversation, but we've set it at $15 - that's what people pay to talk to you.

However, there's more to Talkster than transactions. For now it's aimed at students and recent graduates - the conversations are scheduled in the afternoons - and the conversations are designed as a challenge.

What would you say to Igor from Murmank when he asks whether Scotland should be independent? How about Elena who works as a family solicitor in Novosibirsk?

Sign up and see!