Joe asked me, “Austin, I want to know how to start a conversation. I want to easily be able to start conversations with both guys and girls.”
I answered, “Joe, starting a conversation and confidently talking to both guys and girls is really simple. You just need to know three powerful conversation tips.”
Conversation Tip #1: Smoothly approach the person.
Imagine you are at a party and you see a guy or girl across the room you would like to start a conversation with. First, you want to make the approach. Don't go jogging over there. Don't get so close you violate their personal space.
Calmly walk over with a smile on your face. Stop a couple feet away. Read their body language. Is it open body language? Are their arms uncrossed? Are they smiling?
If not, you can still start the conversation. However, your odds of them blowing you off are higher.
This same conversation principle applies to sales also. Don't rush up to your prospect.
Conversation Tip #2: Match the body language and mood of the person
In college I worked as sales Representative on the store floor. One afternoon at 2:00, two men walked in. I cheerfully said, “Hello, how can I help you?” The first guy paused, looked at me, and said, “What are you so happy about?”
He was in a sour mood and did not appreciate my cheerful attitude.
I should have noticed this and had a more neurally greeting. Match the mood, body language, and pace of the conversations
Conversation Tip #3: Use a good conversation starter question.
Starting a conversation with a guy, girl, or stranger is easy, if you have a good conversation starter question. Memorize a few lines. Not pickup lines, but conversation starters. Here are a few conversation starter questions that are proven to work:
- Hi, I'm. What's your name?
- Is this your first time here?
- How were you invited to this event?
- How do you like to spend most of your time?
These will get you started. It is helpful to memorize about 10 to 15 great conversations starters to use in any situation.
Starting a conversation may seem difficult. Use these three conversation tips and you will know how to start a conversation with virtually anyone.