How To Small Talk for Successful Business Networking
Do you not talk to people in business settings?Do you like business-related social events?Do you find it hard to make long-term connections at work?You are not alone.Most of us dislike entering rooms where we don't know anyone or spending time with people we do not know well, so we are worried about these situations.You will be conversing at the watercooler easily with a little practice and use of these helpful tips.
Step 1: Introduce and start.
Begin with a hello!If you know someone, re-introduce yourself.You can use his name throughout your interaction, but be aware of how he introduces himself.It will help you remember it and establish a personal connection.You will feel more in control when you initiate a conversation and take ownership.
Step 2: It is a good idea to use an icebreaker.
An icebreaker can help meet new people and jump start conversations.Instead of simply saying hello, use an icebreaker such as "tell me about your conference last week..." to lead to a fruitful conversation.Bring me up to date on your project, what do you find to be the most enjoyable aspect of your job, and so on.
Step 3: Make an effort to express your interest.
If you want to be interesting, you should be interested.As a conversation starter, you have to get the other person to talk.Listen to what your partner is saying and ask follow-up questions.Make a mental list of questions that you can ask to get them to elaborate.If you're talking to Mary in the marketing department, ask what she's working on, what the new marketing strategies are, how she is affected by the branding campaign.This is a great way to find out more about potential clients or build a business relationship.Don't ask so many questions that you end up as an interrogator.When interacting, there should be a flow and balance.
Step 4: Common ground can be found.
It's important to stay on topic when talking with a new co-worker or business function speaker.You'll be able to communicate easily if you stay on a topic you're familiar with.Why were you in that location?Did today's seminar help you?Wasn't the memo interesting this week?Stick to what you know and don't discuss controversial topics like politics, religion, personal relationships and family issues.
Step 5: Overcome pregnant pauses
If there are uncomfortable pauses, it's up to you to keep the conversation going.Use your setting to come up with new ideas.It's great to have our sales conference in a warm place.Have you been to Mexico before? Use pauses to compliment your international counterpart.I'm impressed with what you're doing for our Asian business.You've made a lot of improvements to our technology department.
Step 6: Personal boundaries should be established.
If you want to let someone know where you went to college or how many children you have, it's fine, but be careful with how much personal information you give.If both of your wives are attorneys, your relationship could benefit, but you should evaluate the value of the subject matter and its impact on the relationship.The business-networking angle can be lost if the dialogue gets too personal.It is not appropriate to reveal too many personal details in a business setting.To maximize the content of the conversation, use your best judgement.
Step 7: Carefully exit.
It's important to make contact with several people and move around a room in a business situation.If you are in management, it's a good idea to make contact with as many people on the team as possible.Sometimes, there is a good time to move on.To exit the conversation, find an appropriate point.Say, "I really enjoyed talking to you about today's meeting."I have your card and I'll be in touch with you this week so that we can discuss it further.If you say you're going to do something, do it!