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I was at an event once. I struck up a conversation with the man beside me in the queue for a coffee. Turns out he was a physician interested in how technology can improve health outcomes. We chatted for 3 mins about our respective lines of work and then went our merry way.
At the end of the event the physician came over and introduced me to the Head of Estates at his hospital. I then ended up selling our services to the Head of Estates.
The Head of Estates then moved to a new hospital becoming Director of Estates. He then commissioned our services at his new hospital.
So as a result of that one 3 min conversation with the physician, we now have 2 hospitals using our services.
Sustainability Entrepreneurs, you’re going to have to quickly get used the idea of speaking to people who can make big changes to your life and project.
Every person you speak to can lead to opportunity.
You can maximise the chances of meeting people who can help you by hanging out at places they hang out.
You will find these people at events, exhibitions, workshops in real life and online in Linkedin Groups, Facebook and specialist forums- relating to the subject you are interested in.
If you’re going to be attending events (which is very important) then you will need to summon the confidence to break the ice with strangers and start building meaningful relationships.
Conventions, Expos, Conferences, Networking Events
Whilst it may seem a little bit daunting if you aren’t naturally a social butterfly, you will get so much out of these events by breaking the ice first and forming valuable career relationships.
You’re doing the other person a favour!
By breaking the ice, you’re removing the nerves of the other person. Everyone at the conference is in the same boat, a bit nervous, a bit awkward. So, when you strike up a conversation, you’re helping the other person. They won’t think you’re annoying because you’ve just saved them.
Keep it simple and make it about them
People are comfortable talking about their professions, in fact, it’s what they’re most keen to do at the conference. So, open with a simple work related job, such as ‘Where do you work?’. They’re going to tell you, and from there, the conversation can develop naturally. Try to ask open questions instead of questions with yes/no answers.
Two ears and one mouth
The most actionable advice we can give, but the hardest to follow, is to remember to ask questions and then close your mouth and listen. A lot of people will always be ready for their next comment, instead of listening to what they’re being told. Smile and nod, encourage your conversation partner to continue talking. This is a great way to build rapport and quality relationships, as they feel that their words have been truly valued.
Smile!
The universe works best when positive energy is flowing. Smiles are contagious, so get out there and make sure that people know you are friendly and approachable. Smiling also rewrites your brain and makes you happier. You can literally trick yourself out of a bad mood. Psychology is wild. Next time you approach a stranger to break the ice, lead with a big smile!
Ask a question about the event
Some people might be a bit shy about their work, so if they try to avoid the topic, ask them instead why they came to the conference. Try to find something that you share in common and ask what they think about the conference or event in general. Ask about their favourite panel or workshop.
Have a few easy questions ready so that awkward silences don’t last long
Not everyone can claim to be great at making conversation and sometimes you’re going to come up against a brick wall that makes your life difficult. Instead of slowly backing away from an awkward person or simply giving up, have three questions that you can throw out to get people talking. Here are some ideas:
- Hi, what is the most interesting thing you’ve seen today?
- Hi, how are you enjoying the conference?
- What panel did you see last?
- What is your job?
- Where are you from?
Don’t be too prepared! Forget everything and just… TALK!
If someone is walking by and you want to strike up a conversation, forget everything we’ve just said and blurt out what you see. Nice shoes! Great bag! Love your tie! Where did you get your blouse, I love it! This takes spontaneity, but everyone responds well to a compliment.
Breaking the ice and getting to know other delegates is the best way to find the connections you will need to grow your sustainability business, project, and career. The more practice you get at starting conversations the more natural and comfortable you will feel. Often you will find you get more out the people you meet at an event than you do from the exhibitors or the speakers.
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