Goal: Create a positive first impression and establish rapport within the first 7 seconds of meeting
Position Your Body for Connection: Stand or sit with open posture, shoulders back, arms uncrossed
- Face the person directly with your body, not just your head
- Expected result: You appear approachable and confident
Make Eye Contact and Smile Genuinely: Look them in the eyes when speaking and listening
- Hold eye contact for 3-5 seconds at a time, then briefly look away
- Expected result: They feel seen and valued in the conversation
Use These Proven Conversation Starters: Choose one that fits the situation
- "What's been the highlight of your week so far?"
- "Have you discovered any good [books/shows/restaurants] lately?"
- "What brings you to [this event/place/gathering]?"
- Expected result: They respond with more than a yes/no answer
Practice Active Listening: Show you're engaged through your responses
- Nod and use verbal confirmations like "That sounds interesting" or "I can see why you'd enjoy that"
- Ask follow-up questions: "What did you like most about that?" or "How did you get into that?"
- Expected result: The conversation flows naturally for 5+ minutes
Share Something About Yourself: Balance listening with appropriate self-disclosure
- When they mention an interest, share a related experience: "I've been wanting to try that too" or "That reminds me of when I..."
- Keep initial sharing light and positive
- Expected result: They ask you questions in return
If the conversation feels one-sided: Ask more open-ended questions and pause longer for their responses
If you're nervous: Focus on being genuinely curious about them rather than worrying about what to say next
If they seem distracted: Acknowledge it gracefully: "I can see you might need to get going" and suggest connecting later
You'll know you're done when: You've had a natural conversation lasting 10+ minutes with mutual engagement
- You've discovered at least one shared interest or experience
- They've asked you questions about yourself
- The conversation has moved beyond surface-level topics
- You both seem comfortable and engaged
Ready for next step? You've established initial rapport and have something to build on for future contact