Slip in a compliment
When engaging in small talk, slip in a compliment. People love to feel important. - Richard Abraham, speaker, writer, consultant known as "Mr. Schmooze"
“You need to begin to build rapport before you can rush in to sell anything,” says Richard Abraham. Skipping the small talk tells people that you have an agenda—one that centers on what they can do for you, instead of making a genuine connection. And that’s not the impression you want to give to potential clients and contacts. Seamless small talk is easy with a little preparation and practice. One tip to talk your way into a solid networking contact is to slip in a compliment. "People love to feel important,” says Abraham. But steer clear of “You have beautiful eyes” and similarly personal comments. Instead, shoot for something complimentary but impersonal. For example, say that her job sounds fascinating or that he’s seems very knowledgeable. In a pinch, even the clichéd, “Nice tie” will do.
-Richard Abraham, speaker, writer, consultant known as "Mr. Schmooze," in Don't Skip the Small Talk
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