10 Tips to kick start a Conversation

Are you an amateur socialite or a marketing professional? Have you just started your business and often have to meet new people at conferences and parties and social gatherings? You can seldom work without networking with people at social or professional gatherings.

1. First things first. Smile and be energetic. Bring that energy and warmth in your body language.
2. Start by talking about them rather than by about yourself.
3. While an introduction may be important, ensure that it doesn’t last too long. Sharing too much information about yourself can be
   intimidating and is rarely appreciated.
4. Ask people about their business, work, industry, work, life, hobbies. Don’t get too personal though.
   
5. Having researched a person always helps. If you’ve read the person’s article/book/interview, mention the same and how you appreciated a point therein. They will love it.
6. A common topic can be a good icebreaker to begin a conversation. Avoid topics that are uncomfortable.
7. Do seek views of the other person as well. Listen while they speak. Look in the eyes to ensure that they know you’re listening.
   
8. Never Debate or force your views. Disagree gracefully and just discuss.
9. Common topics to mention include compliments for dress/attire, a specific piece of jewellery, suit, food items, décor of the hall, ambience, music (if played around) and so on.
10. Don’t blow your trumpet too much. Don’t boast about your contacts or too much about how much you’ve achieved. Be subtle.