Make an amazing first impression for business or pleasure

“But what do I say?”
“What if I run out of things to say?”

These are the two of the most common questions I’ve faced while coaching people on having effective and captivating personal and business relationships. Thus, it wasn’t a surprise when the number one thing requested at our last Elated News writer’s meeting was an article answering the aforementioned questions.

Now I can give you a lot of cool and interesting scripts, but I won’t. Instead, I’ll reveal two fundamental ideas to make every single one of your interactions naturally interesting and memorable.

Offering Value

Whether it’s a business meeting or approaching an attractive person at a bar, most people have the mindset of “I want to get his business” or “I want to get her number”. The person they are dealing with can feel that from the moment they open their mouth. That is taking value.

What if their mindset going into the meeting was “I want to contribute to him” or “I want to make her smile”? When we let go of our agenda, and come from a place of genuinely offering value first, we not only stand out from everyone else, but we have unlocked doors in business and personal relationships that others have to work a lot harder to open.

Creating The Essence

When you are with your friends you never wonder what to say next or how to impress them. The reason you and most people don’t is because it is understood that you are close friends. The underlying meaning of the interaction – the essence – is one of having fun and going with the flow.

When we are around our bosses, potential customers or attractive dates, a shift occurs. We focus on how to impress and what to say next – an essence, or way of being, which is not useful.

The essence you want to create on a date varies from being playful to connecting intimately. Your focus is on “we’re having an awesome time” and “I want to open up and get to know you.” This allows you to relax, flirt, and really get to know the other person.

The essence you want to create in business meeting is contributing to a common goal and connecting professionally. The mindset is “working together will create a lot of good for our customers and us“ and “we’re establishing trust and professional rapport.” With this mindset you’re guaranteed to have a productive meeting.