Breaking the ice, with connecting with a stranger, on a public place with or in a coffee-shop mentor, or a new co-worker, or a trainer, sometimes it feels hesitation and shying to open up, results in find yourself in unable to forge a deeper bonds with new people you met. For many of us, starting a conversation with some stranger sometimes triggers nervousness and shy behaviors.
But here’s the thing to keep in mind, that having a meaningful conversations is not just solely for the extroverted or the people networking masters. But it can be done by everyone who comes with a bit of curiosity, some preparation, and a genuine intention to connect with more people.
Prep is perhaps the most underappreciated weapon of choice for fabulous conversations. A bit of preparation before you greet can take a small conversation and turn it into something memorable and interesting.
If you’re getting together with someone in particular, spend a few minutes finding up their history, perhaps take a look at their recent interactions and information, interview, or post that they wrote. Rather than resorting to “So, what do you do? “, you might ask what mentioning their recent career change or how they balance it all.
Thoughtful questions indicate that you regard them as more than just another face or name.
But preparation isn’t just about them—it’s also about you. Knowing how to introduce yourself succinctly and meaningfully establishes the tone for a genuine exchange. When your adrenaline kicks in (and it likely will), it’s helpful to have a brief, personal intro at the ready. Talking a little bit about yourself or what led you to the conversation will make it more comfortable for the other person to respond similarly.
Confidence is not about having the right words or being the most outgoing speaker in the room. According to a personal branding coach Sandy Grigsby, confidence actually comes from being at peace with who you make yourself with extending the same warmth and respect to others. Every day, heartfelt actions, such as recalling a person’s name, looking them in the eye, or providing a sincere compliment, are very effective. Authenticity, not performance, is what people respond to.
Listening is as important as talking. Asking open-ended questions and taking genuine interest in a person’s history makes them feel heard, and makes you memorable. Whether you’re inquiring about their top film or how they navigated a career change, the idea is to create room for them to share what’s most important to them. Great conversations begin with small acts of kindness such as helping a stranger, that may lands into something surprising and worthwhile in future.
Ending the conversation as well as beginning it is equally vital. Do it nicely with a gracious thank-you or tell them how much you enjoyed their time. If the conversation went smoothly, you can ask if they would mind talking again, or if there is another person they think that you should speak to. A smooth exit makes a lasting, good impression.
And don’t forget, that not every conversation will result in a job offer, a new best friend, or a deep connection opportunity with forge deeper bonds with newly met people. As, only someone out of strangers will gel with you, and some won’t, and that’s fine. What’s important is showing up with an open heart, a desire to connect, and the guts to be aware of yourself. And all these little moments of connection, over the time will make your life fuller, more exciting, and experience lot more rewarding.