Chapter 40
Initiating Dialogue
The logical beginning of every relationship is conversation. Initiating dialogue is an important first step; without the onset of a conversation, how will you get to know someone?
When we were young, our parents taught us to not talk to strangers. For many, this remains imbedded in their attitudes as they set out to build a network. To build your ultimate network, you're going to have to let this rule go and start talking with people you don't know yet.
The best way to initiate dialogue is to simply make eye contact and say “Hello.” Rarely will people turn away from you, provided you present a professional, confident, and inviting image. If you do, and they still snub you, that's their problem, not yours. When you use this approach, prepare to lead the conversation somewhere. It's uncomfortable to stop a conversation after hello.
When looking for a conversation partner in a crowded room there are three likely scenarios that make it easy to initiate dialogue:
When it comes to initiating dialogue, accept that for the most part, conversation openers will not be that original or exciting. It's the formality of the beginning of any relationship. True connections develop thanks to the direction of the dialogue after it's been initiated.
Use your surroundings to strike up a conversation. Situational dialogue offers ...
