I always read the same book, or so it would seem.
At coffee shops and cafes, where I often work as a digital nomad, I am rarely seen without my copy of Susan Cain's best-selling novel "Quiet," a fascinating read about "the power of introverts in a world that can't stop talking."
However, the truth is that I am not constantly re-reading the same book. Rather, I strategically place it on my cafe table for patrons to see because it is a fabulous conversation starter.
Perhaps unsurprisingly, few things will get introverts to open up to someone like the mutual love of a good book.
"You're reading "Quiet" too!?" they eagerly ask, confiding that they also identify as an introvert.
"That book changed the way I viewed myself and my place in the world!" some exclaim.
"How is the book?" they might ask; "I haven't read it yet, but I saw Susan's TEDTalk and I loved it."
Within the first couple of minutes of conversation, I casually mention that, in fact, I am a travel agent who specializes in travel for introverts. I then deploy my carefully-crafted elevator speech, practiced enough to know exactly what to say and how to say it so that it sounds natural and unscripted.
Intrigued by what I do, many people ask if I have a business card.
"Why yes, I think I might," I respond as I reach into my pocket. (Of course, I always carry several business cards everywhere I go. Duh!)
Finally, if they seem like a dream prospect or have an immediate need for a travel advisor, I'll take the opportunity to invite them for a coffee date-my treat.
This is networking by design, and the brilliance is that my target market actually approaches me. The conversation doesn't feel forced or awkward because I've already established a common interest with them.
You can do the same for your business.
Think of where your ideal clients spend time in their daily lives and try to purposely put yourself in front of them. For example, my ideal clients prefer independently-owned coffee shops over Starbucks, so I intentionally hang out at those types of establishments. Depending on your goals, you might strike up conversations at the gym, a rooftop pool, or your city's hip underground dining club.
Once you've figured out where to find your tribe of like-minded people, brainstorm creative ways to plant seeds that spur conversations with them. Here are a few ideas:
-Throw on an attention-grabbing silk scarf from Paris or an Indian pashmina.
-Don a Panama hat from Ecuador. (Little-known fact: Ecuador is the originator of Panama hats, not Panama.)
-Slip on a colorful bracelet from South Africa or beaded earrings from Kenya.
-When the weather chills, wrap yourself in a stylish Mexican poncho.
-At the pool, cover yourself with a chic Balinese sarong.
-Carry a hand-woven purse from Thailand.
-Sip from a coffee mug or water bottle with your brand's logo.
Making a sartorial statement with clothing or accessories is the easiest way to grab someone's attention, but whatever you choose, make sure the piece has a story behind it. Weave that into your passion for travel or a particular destination.
Next, subtly segue into your elevator speech and explain what it is that you do and what makes you unique.
Perhaps most importantly, always exchange contact information so that they can get in touch. (Bonus points if they give you their information, so you can follow-up with them personally.)
I hope these tips have given you some creative ideas for networking naturally and authentically, thereby attracting your dream clients! What are some of your favorite icebreakers? Leave a comment and let me know what conversation starters you come up with.
Until next time, stay inspired.
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