During the Holidays, we are flung into various rooms full of people we don't know. First there's an introduction. Then an awkward pause. So how do we put some jingle in our mingle?
Ask questions. Here is a list of conversation helpers - even if you are shy, give it a try:
The Opener:
Are you from this area? Are you originally from here? Where are you from?
What do you do for a living?
The Follow up: (Listen and ask questions based on the answers.)
(To the person from another area):
What made you decide to live here?
How do you like living here? or Are you enjoying the area?
Do you have any family close by?
Do you get back to visit where you are from?
I would like to visit the area you are from - can you recommend sites to see or places to eat?
(To the person from the area):
Where did you go to high school?
How long have you been with that company?
How did you become interested in that field?
How did you get started in that field?
What type of training did you need to develop your expertise?
What do you like best about your job?
What are the biggest challenges in your industry?
Do you know if your company is currently hiring?
I am very interested in your line of work, can you recommend what steps I should take?
What do you like to do outside of work? Do you have any hobbies?
How did you get interested in that?
Do you need special gear?
Where do you go to practice your hobby?
The Finish:
I enjoyed speaking with you.
Thank you for taking the time to speak with me.
You have an impressive background and I enjoyed hearing about it.
Enjoy your evening. or Enjoy the rest of the convention.
Thank you for your business card...may I follow up with you next week?
Good luck to you.
I wish you the best.
(I should re-think that, because the acronym spells, "OFF." Or rescue it with marketing lingo: "To turn people on, just think: OFF.")
Listen carefully, because their answers are valuable. Use that info to introduce the person to others with similar backgrounds or interests. It's also great research to identify future clients, employers or business partners.
Don't fear conversation. It's a skill to be practiced like anything else.
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