Life is full of surprises and chance encounters. Sometimes, a random meeting with the right person can have a lasting impact on your future. In other words, building connections is essential — especially in business.
So, how do you make meaningful professional connections and meet the people who matter most to you? AdmiGram.com has got you covered with some clever tips to help you get noticed by key figures. By using these techniques, you’ll know how to start a conversation, hold someone’s attention, and make the most of a valuable new connection.
How to meet important people
Prepare ahead of time
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Never underestimate the power of preparation. Doing a little research on the people you want to meet will make it much easier to start a conversation and help them remember you among the many others they’ll speak with that day. Plus, you’ll gain insight into how you can be of value to them personally.
By gathering information, you can identify shared interests and find common ground. This is crucial. While first meetings rarely result in deals or major decisions, your contact will remember you if you prove to be helpful or interesting. And it’s not always just about money or business, either.
First impressions matter
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Your appearance plays a big role in forming a first impression. Start by thinking about your goal and dress accordingly. If you want to project authority, dress one level more formally than the people you’re meeting. If your goal is to seem relatable, mirror your audience’s style.
What you wear speaks volumes before you even say a word. But don’t go overboard. Avoid wearing your best pieces if the designer labels overshadow your personality. To stand out, all you need is one well-chosen accessory that pops — a bright tie, unique glasses, or a distinctive piece of jewelry.
Never underestimate the power of a smile
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Remember, people enjoy talking to happy, upbeat individuals. It doesn’t matter what you’re feeling inside — your words will carry more weight if you deliver them with a smile and direct eye contact. Smiling can work wonders. Making eye contact shows that you’re engaged and listening closely.
However, staring too intently can feel threatening. Darting eyes suggest nervousness or dishonesty. Try not to fidget either, as it signals anxiety, boredom, or impatience, and anxious behavior erodes trust. Keep calm, as your energy influences others. If you’re jittery, you’ll make the other person uneasy too.
Mirror your contact’s behavior
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To build rapport, try subtly mirroring the other person’s preferences, body language, and gestures — but don’t overdo it. When people sense similarities, they’re more open to persuasion. The key is to be a “kindred spirit,” which can be achieved through simple “mirroring.”
For example, liking the same coffee as your contact or enjoying the same old jazz playing in the lobby can quickly create a connection. This kind of similarity helps you bond, as it subconsciously signals to the other person that you’re alike and on the same wavelength.
Listen to understand, not just to respond
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Master the art of truly listening, instead of focusing on your own problems or talking about yourself. Sharing personal concerns or going on about your own life only frustrates others and makes them want to end the conversation. Don’t overwhelm your listener with unnecessary details.
But here’s where you can use this common human flaw to your advantage: Everyone agrees that the best conversationalists are great listeners. Be that person. Better yet, when you hear about their struggles and know how to help (because you’ve prepared and done your research), offer a solution. This is invaluable and will surely work in your favor.
image on top: Antenna / Unsplash
