How Do You Strike Up a Conversation?

The introduction is a simple process, so don’t complicate it. Say your first and last name clearly and if they get it wrong, correct them. The last thing you want is them to leave the conversation not knowing who you are. After you shake their hand, what do you do? Do you panic? Do you wait for them to say something? Don’t wait for a lull, tell them who you work for, your title and give them your elevator pitch. The elevator pitch should be simple, to the point and refrain from using big words. For more tips on the Elevator pitch check out this article - www.mindtools.com/pages/article/elevator-pitch.htm

Now it’s time to get them talking. Ask them what they do and once they finish, follow up with a few simple yes or no questions. This will keep them talking and the conversation flowing. Listen intently to what they’re saying and don’t force the conversation to benefit you, there will be time for this later.

Stay away from meaningless filler like how’s the weather or did you see the game last night. Never forget that you’re trying to make an impression and nobody remembers conversations about the weather.

In conclusion say their name, what a pleasure it was to meet them shake their hand again and exchange business cards.

The most important part is the FOLLOW UP. Send them an email the next morning but never in the evening. They might value their family time or not look at emails until the morning and if that’s the case it will be way down the email train. If you had a great chinwag, send them a link to an article related to your conversation.

Do You Believe in Second Chances

"When someone does something wrong, don’t forget about all the things they did right"

Everyone makes mistakes and when you do, own it, learn from it, and make sure it never happens again. Before you rip an employee for a mistake put yourself in their shoes because it might give you a different perspective. Everyone deserves a second chance and a second chance could be exactly what they need. Believe in them.

How Do You Strike Up a Conversation?

The introduction is a simple process, so don’t complicate it. Say your first and last name clearly and if they get it wrong, correct them. The last thing you want is them to leave the conversation not knowing who you are. After you shake their hand, what do you do? Do you panic? Do you wait for them to say something? Don’t wait for a lull, tell them who you work for, your title and give them your elevator pitch. The elevator pitch should be simple, to the point and refrain from using big words. For more tips on the Elevator pitch check out this article - www.mindtools.com/pages/article/elevator-pitch.htm

Now it’s time to get them talking. Ask them what they do and once they finish, follow up with a few simple yes or no questions. This will keep them talking and the conversation flowing. Listen intently to what they’re saying and don’t force the conversation to benefit you, there will be time for this later.

Stay away from meaningless filler like how’s the weather or did you see the game last night. Never forget that you’re trying to make an impression and nobody remembers conversations about the weather.

In conclusion say their name, what a pleasure it was to meet them shake their hand again and exchange business cards.

The most important part is the FOLLOW UP. Send them an email the next morning but never in the evening. They might value their family time or not look at emails until the morning and if that’s the case it will be way down the email train. If you had a great chinwag, send them a link to an article related to your conversation.