Talk to Strangers
Scott Bond
Vice President | Talent Developer | Global Revenue Leader | Board Member | Startup Advisor
You never know when a simple conversation with a stranger might open the door to your next big career opportunity. Whether on an airplane, in a coffee shop, or even riding an elevator, these encounters can lead to meeting your future boss, mentor, or a key connection who could help you advance in your career. Embracing the art of talking to strangers can transform your professional life in ways you never imagined.
Imagine you're on a flight to a conference. The person sitting next to you starts a casual conversation, and you find out they're a senior executive in your industry. As you chat, you discover shared interests and professional goals. By the end of the flight, you've exchanged contact information and they invite you to connect on LinkedIn. This chance meeting could be the beginning of a valuable professional relationship, potentially leading to job opportunities or mentorship.
Or consider the coffee shop scenario. You're waiting for your morning latte when you strike up a conversation with the person in line behind you. They're a hiring manager at a company you've always admired. You leave a positive impression through your brief interaction, and they suggest you apply for an upcoming position. What started as a simple coffee chat could become your dream job.
Even a short elevator ride can be an opportunity. Let's say you're visiting a potential client's office and share an elevator with someone who works there. A friendly exchange about the weather or the building's architecture can lead to a deeper conversation about your respective roles and companies. This connection might pave the way for a successful business relationship or a referral for a future job opening.
领英推荐
The key to making the most of these encounters is to be open, approachable, and genuinely interested in the other person. You don't need to force the conversation or come across as overly aggressive. Instead, be yourself, ask thoughtful questions, and listen actively. People appreciate authenticity and are more likely to remember you if you leave a positive impression.
Talking to strangers can open doors you never knew existed. Whether on planes, trains, or automobiles, these interactions can lead to meeting influential people who can significantly impact your career. Embrace these opportunities; you might find your next boss, mentor, or a valuable connection in the most unexpected places. Every conversation is a chance to grow your network and advance your career. So, next time you find yourself in a situation where you can talk to someone new, take the leap and start a conversation.
If you enjoyed this article, I write daily on Patreon.com/scottbond , I host a podcast, I run a Discord community and I genuinely want to help inspire and influence your career. Sure, it's $5 a month, but you spent more than that on an iced oat milk latte today.
by Scott Bond