05/06/2024
Ever felt a bit uncomfortable with the pre-meeting small talk? You’re not alone. For many, especially introverts, jumping into conversations with a crowd can be daunting. We often want to have a strong presence but with a group conversation already in full sway, it can feel difficult to break in.
This may not be a problem for some, especially if you are a type Yellow person (see my previous post on Surrounded by Idiots). But others what if there was a way to navigate this in a more authentic way?
Here’s a simple tip: Join the meeting early.
By being one of the first to arrive, you get the chance to connect with the initial one or two people who join. For many this is an easier setting, and actually plays their strengths in one-to-one relationship building. It allows the space for a more meaningful conversation, rather than struggling to break into an ongoing group discussion.
This may albeit be brief, but you’ve successfully established yourself in the conversation, and you potentially have made a new connection or strengthen a relationship - possibly even with a key stakeholder - result!
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What could this look like?
Sample script:
[Danny joins the call, that Jin is already on]
Jin: Oh high, Danny how are you?
Danny: Great thanks, and you?
Jin: Yeah good thank you. Danny, how’s your day going, all going according to plan?
Danny: Haha, yeah not quite!
Jin: Oh really, tell me more…
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There’s probably a whole other article to write about meaningful conversation starters! Would you find that article useful? Comment “meaningful” if so. Or better still, how would you help Jin open the conversation better? Drop your own conversation starters below.
So give it a try and see how it transforms your meetings. And why not come back and let me know how you get on!
- Coach Perry 🙌