Create a small talk topic

Build small talk topics that let Virtual Agent engage in casual conversation with users. A small talk topic provides a response to a casual question that users might ask during a conversation, such as the time or date. A small talk topic can occur anytime within a conversation session and can be unrelated to the original conversation intent.

Before you begin

If you're creating an LLM small talk topic, ensure you are familiar with LLM descriptions and instructions. For more information, see LLM description and instruction guidelines for Virtual Agent topics.

If you're creating an NLU small talk topic, define the corresponding intent in the appropriate NLU model.

Role required: virtual_agent_admin or admin

About this task

Small talk topics are conversations that diverge from the original bot conversation, usually to provide answers or information to casual questions that end users might ask. For example, you can create small talk topics that provide the current weather or time of day. When users engage with the bot through a small talk topic, they can return to the original conversation topic.

Note:

If you have activated Now Assist in Virtual Agent, you can also create small talk filters to redirect the conversation if needed. For more information, see Configure small talk filters.

Procedure

1. Navigate to All > Conversational Interfaces > Virtual Agent > Designer.
2. On the home page, select Create.
3. For the Type, select Small Talk.
4. Follow the steps for creating a topic.
   Note:

   • If you're creating an NLU/keyword small talk topic, fill in the following fields on the Properties page.

     Field	Description
     NLU Model	Model that defines the intent for this small talk topic.
     Associated intent	Intent defined in the NLU model for this small talk topic.

   • When you complete your small talk topic, remember to publish it when you are ready to deploy it to your Virtual Agent clients.