Initiating a conversation, especially with someone you don’t know well, can be a daunting task. The fear of potential awkwardness or the uncertainty of how the other person will receive your call often holds people back. Millions grapple with the anxiety of reaching out, questioning whether they might be an intrusion or if the other person is too busy to talk. It’s a mental minefield of ‘what ifs.’

But consider this: What if your call is a ray of sunshine on someone’s gloomy day? What if your words are precisely what the other person needs to hear? Our words have the power to impact others in ways we may not fully comprehend.

A common dilemma is figuring out what to say during that initial call, especially when it involves someone you don’t know well. My recommendation? Invest a little time in research before picking up the phone. Avoid diving into a sales pitch; it’s a major turn-off. Nobody enjoys feeling like they’re being sold to. Instead, focus on breaking the ice with genuine conversation.

In today’s digital age, researching individuals has become more accessible. Delve into their digital footprint to gather insights. Avoid sensitive topics like politics or religion, unless your profession involves such discussions. Instead, consider these four conversation starters:

1. Family: Inquire about the person’s family. Social media platforms are treasure troves of information. Have they recently been on a family vacation? Are they dealing with any significant family events? Discover commonalities by scrolling through their social media feed.
2. Occupation: LinkedIn is a valuable resource for learning about someone’s professional life. Explore recent posts and company details to ask informed questions. Your knowledge may prove beneficial in connecting them with others who may need their services down the line.
3. Recreation: Everyone appreciates a bit of rest and relaxation. Find out about their favorite sports teams, hobbies, or special interests. By following their social media profiles, you might discover shared interests, whether it’s a love for wine tasting or a passion for movies.
4. Dreams: Explore the individual’s aspirations, whether it’s a planned vacation, starting a business, or writing a book. Share your own dreams and inquire about theirs. Discussing future goals can lead to meaningful conversations and connections.

Understanding that these four topics provide a solid foundation for any conversation is a game-changer. Personal communication transcends mere sales pitches. The more common ground you discover, the deeper your connections will be. Building business relationships on a foundation of friendship places you ahead of the competition.

Master the art of connection, and watch your network thrive.

© Copyright 2024. Zelda Greenberg