10 Ways to Start and Hold Dazzling Conversation With Anyone

Use the ‘Bookmarking’ technique to create a deeper connection by adding verbal markers or emphasis to parts of the conversation:

• Future Mentions: saying something that will require follow up on later.
• Inside Jokes: making jokes that refer to something interesting or funny you and the listener was involved in.
• Same Same: exclaiming how crazy it is you have something in common and talking about it.
• You Have to See: saying that you will share something they are interested in with them later.

1. Research has found that “Hello, how are you?” is the most effective conversation starter, but you can use context, like impressions or the location, in its place.
2. Bring up topics, look for ideas and ask questions that spark energy or get the person excited.
3. The eyebrow raise is what we do when we hear or see something interesting. It clues you in to a topic that they might like discussing.
4. Stories are great to hold attention, instigate emotion and are more easily remembered. Keep in mind your favorite ones, the ones that can backup claims and how you can answer with anecdotes.
5. When we share something, we often want someone else to share something. Give back as much as you get.
6. Don’t be a conversational narcissist. Ensure you do equal parts talking and listening.
7. Don’t try to constantly outdo others or their stories. Let people enjoy their moment and celebrate with them, don’t one-up them.

We make our first impression in the first 7 seconds of seeing someone, sometimes even before we interact. You can signal friendliness by:

• Keeping your hands visible
• Rolling your shoulders down and back so they are nice and relaxed
• Smiling when you see someone you recognize or you want to talk to

Purpose provides confidence, boosts influence and is contagious. To be more purposeful in your conversations answer the following:

• Who is hosting the event?
• What kinds of people are going?
• When is it and what’s the schedule?
• Why are you going?