Do you have challenges when it comes to striking up a good conversation?
Is it awkward for you?
Do you ever say things you regretted?
Did you wish you were better prepared?
Well, you’re not alone.
We’ve all done a few of the above during social situations.
But, there are ways to improve, so you won’t repeat those mistakes.
Entrepreneur.com’s, Marty Fukuda has 5 suggestions that are sure to give you more confidence, so you can take your conversations to new heights.
1. Never wing it.
Every conversation I’ve left with regrets shares a common denominator --- I didn’t think before I spoke. Most of us are at our best when we have ample time to process our thoughts before sharing them. If a conversation or meeting is worth your time to schedule, it’s worth taking a few minutes to develop an outline beforehand. For a particularly important dialogue, consider role-playing the conversation with a trusted colleague to remove the rough edges.
2. Think about it from the receiver’s perspective.
Put yourself in the other person’s shoes when shaping your strategy. This ensures a balanced approach and will prepare you to not only support your position, but also to challenge any potential rebuttals.
3. Be prepared for different responses.
No one can predict with 100 percent certainty how everyone will respond.
Increase your chances that a conversation goes well by anticipating negative or questioning replies. This lessens the likelihood you’ll be caught off guard.
4. Approach with reason and logic.
A point that is introduced with logic and confidence is less likely to be met with hostility. The key is to approach each conversation with objective-minded reasoning supported by data or fact, if possible.
5. Don’t forget the emotional side.
While point number four stresses the need for objective conversation, it’s important to remember that emotions often trump logic.
Don’t underestimate the influence emotions can play in the perception of a message --- and understand which ones your words may evoke.
Marty, thank you for the insight.
The above are tips you can use when meeting with prospects, networking contacts and in other social situations.
To be a great conversationalist, it really depends on your effort.
If you work on it, you’d be surprised what benefits your improved communication skills may bring.
It could result in more clients for your business or new connections in your network.
You won’t know unless you give it a shot.
To your success,
Michael
