Top 5 Holiday Small Talk Tactics
December 3rd, 2009
The holiday season is full of opportunities to network and meet/greet people so I decided to throw together a list of my top 5 small talk tactics:
- Show up early – I did this by accident several weeks ago and had nothing to do but talk to the event organizers and help them rearrange the tables. In return these two ladies made introductions for me throughout the evening.
- Use an exciting opening phrase – Rather than the traditional “How are you?” greeting, incorporate a phrase such as “What are you working on that’s new and exciting?” or “What’s new and exciting?” I’ve used this at tradeshows for several years now and it’s a great way of getting other people to open up.
- Give descriptive answers – Rather than answer the inevitable question “What do you do?” with “work for a software company”. Try giving a more specific answer such as “I sell and market data mining software to insurance companies.” Even though my example is tech-y I’ve given given my bogey the option of connecting on several fronts: software, sales & marketing, and insurance.
- Prepare – Formulate interesting answers to common questions that you know you will be asked. (apply #3)
- Recommend & Refer – As you begin to meet people throughout the evening make recommendations and introductions between your new acquaintances.
What’s your favorite small talk tactic?
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