One of the biggest challenges in networking is engaging with someone without immediately mentioning your business or what you do.
It’s tempting to dive straight into your elevator pitch, especially when you’re nervous or unsure of how to keep the conversation going.
However, this approach can often come across as insincere or pushy, and it can shut down the potential for a meaningful connection. The key is to create intrigue and genuine interest before bringing your business into the conversation.
Why You Should Hold Back on the Business Talk
- Create Authentic Connections: When you start a conversation by immediately talking about your job or business, it can feel transactional. People may think you’re only interested in what they can do for you. Instead, focus on building a genuine connection by asking about their interests, experiences, or opinions on current events. This approach can make the interaction more memorable and set the stage for a deeper connection down the line.
- Showcase Your Personality: Your business is important, but so is who you are as a person. By holding off on the business talk, you have the opportunity to showcase your personality, share your passions, and discuss topics that might not come up in a typical professional setting. This can make you more relatable and approachable, which is essential in building trust (BetterUp).
- Stand Out from the Crowd: Many people default to talking about their jobs because it’s easy and familiar. By not mentioning your business right away, you set yourself apart from the usual networking crowd. People will remember the interesting conversation they had with you, rather than just another pitch they received.
- Build Curiosity: When you hold back on discussing your business, you create a sense of curiosity. If the conversation flows naturally, the other person is likely to ask about what you do. At that point, you can share your business in a way that feels more organic and less forced.
How to Navigate the Conversation
- Ask Open-Ended Questions: Start by asking questions that invite more than just a yes or no answer. Questions about the other person’s hobbies, recent travels, or thoughts on a current event can lead to a more engaging conversation.
- Share a Story: Instead of jumping into what you do, share an interesting story or anecdote. This could be about something you’re passionate about or an experience you’ve had recently. Stories are powerful because they make you more relatable and can naturally lead into a discussion about your business later on.
- Find Common Ground: Look for shared interests or experiences. Whether it’s a love for a certain type of cuisine, a shared hobby, or even a mutual acquaintance, finding common ground helps build rapport and makes the conversation more enjoyable for both parties.
- Be a Good Listener: Sometimes, the best way to steer the conversation away from your business is simply to listen. People appreciate when they feel heard, and active listening can lead to a more meaningful exchange.
How I Can Help
Networking effectively without immediately resorting to talking about your business is a skill that takes practice. If you’re struggling with this or find it challenging to create meaningful connections, I can help you develop strategies tailored to your unique personality and goals.
Consider choosing one of my 1-on-1 coaching packages to explore creative solutions and improve your networking skills. Together, we can work on building your confidence, refining your approach, and making sure you stand out in any networking situation.
Learn more about how I can Be of Service to you by exploring my website and discovering how my coaching can help you build strong, authentic connections that drive your business forward.
This blog post aims to provide practical advice on how to navigate networking events without falling into the trap of immediately talking about your business. If you find value in these insights, consider joining my newsletter to stay updated on new posts and other news.
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