How do you make a great impression on people every time? The answer is really simple and easy, yet the devil is in the details of execution.
- Talk less, listen more. Tell less, ask more. Actively listen to their words, tone of voice and visual cues.
- Value their time – keep the conversation short and focused. Defer to a later time if it gets overly interesting or complicated.
- Ask focused questions about them on a personal or business level. Let them know that you value them enough to remember what to ask about.
- Compliment a recent award, accomplishment, mention in the media, etc. Also subtly lets them know that you read.
- Givers always gain – ask if there’s anything you or someone you know can do to help them with a particular problem or challenge.
- After the conversation, send a brief email or hand-written note indicating that you enjoyed the chat and look forward to next time.
Like I said – easy and simple. And don’t tell me these strategies won’t work until you try them and can tell me they didn’t work.