Remember our previous post about how to build rapport effectively? Let’s continue that discussion and explore more strategies to master this essential skill. In this blog post, we will shed a light on how to continue a conversation. Business Publication Inc. has offered eight additional tips that align to become an engaging and impactful executive. So, let’s dive in!
1. Be Curious
Start with open-ended questions and keep the conversation flowing. While we previously talked about kicking off with a question and a follow-up, keeping the curiosity alive throughout your interaction is essential. Avoid monopolising the conversation; let your conversation partner have their time in the spotlight. They might even reciprocate and ask about your experiences, providing a natural segue back to focusing on them. Imagine the conversation as a dance—you take the lead, then let your partner have their turn. If someone asks about your hometown, you can reply and then ask about their travel experiences.This keeps the dialogue balanced and genuine.
2. Be Honest
Finding the right balance between honesty and tact is crucial. It’s about being transparent without crossing the line into rudeness. The Inc. article mentioned above recommends revealing insights about your business operations, providing constructive criticism on your conversation partner’s approach, or sharing personal experiences that show vulnerability. Let’s say you’re chatting with a colleague about a recent project. Instead of glossing over challenges, discuss them openly, highlighting what you learned. This not only builds trust but also humanizes you, making it easier for others to relate.
3. Be Yourself And Continue the Conversation
Finding common ground is one of the most effective ways to establish rapport. People are naturally drawn to others with shared interests. As you converse, look for clues that suggest mutual hobbies or experiences. They may have a sports jersey hanging in their office from a team you follow, or their LinkedIn profile indicates you both attended the same university. Strike up a conversation about these shared interests! It can strengthen the connection and foster a genuine relationship.
4. Be Valuable
At the core, most people are looking to see what they can gain from every situation. This isn’t selfish—it’s just human nature. You’re working to build rapport to advance your career, while others might find comfort in talking about themselves. Consider what your conversation partner might want from the interaction, and offer value in return. For instance, during your conversation, if someone mentions they’re struggling with a work-related challenge you’ve faced before, share your experience and the steps you took to overcome it. Your insights could be precious and greatly appreciated.
5. Engage in Person
Don’t rely solely on digital networking—face-to-face interactions are irreplaceable for building rapport. Networking events and business meetings provide opportunities to put your rapport-building skills to the test. While video calls and phone conversations are helpful, something about being in the same room with someone fosters a deeper connection. You can observe body language and other non-verbal cues that help you better understand and connect with your conversation partner.
6. Sharpen Your Storytelling
A well-told story can captivate an audience and leave a lasting impression. Think about the last time you were engrossed in a tale—what elements made it so engaging? Practice incorporating storytelling into your conversations. Share anecdotes that highlight your experiences or lessons learned. You can create memorable and engaging interactions by weaving relatable stories into your discussions.
7. Follow Up and Stay Connected
After your conversation, don’t let the connection fade. Follow up with a friendly email or message to thank them for their time and continue the dialogue. This simple gesture keeps the rapport alive and opens the door for future interactions. Remembering small details from your conversation and referencing them in your follow-up can significantly impact the interaction. It shows that you were truly engaged and invested in the interaction.
8. Reflect and Learn
Take some time after your conversations to reflect on what went well and what you could improve. Consider the strategies you used and how they resonated with your conversation partner. Learning from each interaction will help you refine your rapport-building skills over time. By becoming more self-aware, you can adjust your approach and continuously improve your ability to connect with others. Incorporating these tips into your networking toolkit will empower you to build meaningful and lasting relationships. As you practice these strategies, you’ll notice an improvement in your ability to engage others and create genuine connections. Remember, rapport-building is a skill that requires ongoing practice and refinement. Remember these tips the next time you find yourself in a conversation—whether at a networking event, a business meeting, or even a casual chat with a colleague.