Do conversations make you sweat?

If you are just a little paranoid about holding conversations because you dread the flatline, awkward silence, or the constant “mm, hmm’s” then I have something that can help air out those arm pits and give you a sigh of relief.

Now I didn’t create this cheat sheet, I had training as a sorority woman to speak to potential new members with the goal of learning who they are and connecting them to how our organization can cultivate their potential. Shout out to those women who made me less awkward. Note* still awkward, but not as awkward in awkward settings like networking at conferences or meeting new people.

The 7 topics to keep in mind when a conversation flatlines is….
Family, Friends, Firsts, Favorites, Food, Fun, and Future

Go in with a few questions for each topic. Pull them out when needed. Some examples are:
- This is my first time in this city, have you been here before?
- (assuming they say yes) Do you have a suggestion of restaurants in the area? (wait for answer) Oh what is your favorite dish?

These topics should guide your conversation if you get stuck and feel the awkwardness settling in. Keep in mind you should be an active listener more than anything in a conversation. If you ask a question in one of the topics, it may lead you to a connection that you should stay on. Don’t immediately think, “Ok I covered Fun, let me move to Food!” Stay on topic, ask more questions, and find the connection!

Lastly, this scenario may be different if you are networking with purpose. If you are job searching or seeking a specific connection for your business, then you need to make sure you have an elevator pitch ready. But be a human and understand that people still love to talk about themselves and the F’s can lead to your future if used correctly.

Practice this today, at the coffee shop, in the hallway, through text or email to clients!

Do great things,
BDP