As the old adage goes…
”People don’t care how much you know until they know how much you care.”
Starting a conversation is not about you but about the person you are engaging.
I’ve been teaching about “Engage” for several years now. Here are some steps you can use:
1. Handshake
Have a firm handshake. A lot can be said of a person’s self-esteem through a handshake.
2. Eye contact
Use the 4-second rule. Maintain eye-to-eye contact for at least 4 seconds while shaking hands.
This will elicit trust. Remember, “The Eyes are the Windows to the Soul.”
3. Smile
When you smile at someone they automatically smile back at you.
A smile increases your face value.
4. Get their name
A person’s name is to that person the sweetest and most important sound in any language.
Ask them their name and repeat their name to them.
“Hi! I’m Harry. And you’re? I’m Jess. Hi Jess! It’s nice to meet you.
5. Build Rapport
Be a good listener.
Encourage them to talk about themselves and their accomplishments.
Ask relevant questions to connect.
Where are you from? What do you do? Etc.
6. Find Common Ground.
Talk about areas of similar interest.
7. Give your calling card.
Hand the card by holding both ends and with the front facing the recipient.
8. Shake their hands again, mention their name, and bid them farewell.
“Nice to meet you Jess, Will be seeing you again.”
Talk to people about themselves and they will listen for hours. After your conversation, they will feel like you are full of wisdom when all you were doing is just listen to them.
The next time you meet or when you give this person a call, you won’t be a stranger anymore. You have opened the door for possibilities of a fruitful relationship.