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In the ever-changing world of professional growth, being able to turn small talks into strategic steps can change the course of your career. These everyday interactions are often overlooked, but they have unrealized promise. You need to learn how to turn talks into chances to make meaningful connections and make the most of networking opportunities.
Most companies use applicant tracking system software (ATS), which is like a screen for job applications and makes it important to be able to talk to people. In fact, a Harvard study found that ATS may be too narrow, harming recruitment efforts. And yet, many job seekers still scout job boards despite studies showing that 85% of open jobs are filled through networking– and in-person meetings result in a 40% close rate.
That’s why being good at small talk is so important to get big chances. Every small talks is a chance to do something magical. Whether with a taxi driver, the person in front of or behind you in line for coffee, or at a networking event. You have a chance to connect with someone.
An elevator pitch or speech is a short way to introduce yourself and try to make a connection that could lead to possibilities. In 30 seconds or less, your elevator pitch needs to tell people who you are, what you do, and what you want.
Share an event from your childhood that has something to do with the core skills you use in your job right now. Start with “I grew up…” or “I was always the kid who…” Tell a story to connect with someone.
Humbly brag about yourself.
Show how great you are by being thankful. For instance, “I’m so glad that…” Share a unique thing about yourself that you can bring to the table… It could be a language skill, a chance to lead, or something you’ve done. Just make sure it has something to do with the job you want or the way you want it to go.
What makes you different is how you do what you do. It’s your own special mark. Find a way to weave your unique skill set into your elevator pitch as a testimonial: “My boss often tells me I have a strong skill set with… [insert]… and that’s something I’m excited to take with me in my next career steps.”
Tell people what your goals are.
When you meet someone for the first time, you ask them to join you on LinkedIn. If you’re talking to someone who might be able to help you, say something like, “Right now, I’m looking to move into […] and hope to meet more recruiters in that field.”
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The only way to turn small talks into a chance is to connect with the other person. The best way to connect with someone is to listen for things you have in common without trying to be better than them. For example, if you both run 10Ks but you’ve run more, there’s no need to brag about it. You’ll get much further if you ask them which one they liked best and why. Show that you heard them by saying a part of what they said back to them. The best way to get to know someone is to share stories and look for things you have in common.
You might be in awkward silence with someone you just met while waiting for the bus or at a networking event. Use the things around you to start talking again. This can be about anything, from the weather to art on the wall. If you don’t know what to talk about, ask your new friend where they are from or how their day is going.
Saying something about awkward silence is another way to break the silence. For example, “It’s always so interesting how loud, awkward silence is.”
Every time you meet a new person, you have a chance to make an impact that will last. But just as important as how you start a talk is how you end it. Be thankful that you ran into each other. Find a way to stay in touch with the person, like sending them information about something you talked about or contacting someone who can help them with something they need. Even though sharing information is important, what’s more important is that you get their information.
If you don’t follow up, you lose every chance you might have had. So, all you need to do is get their contact information. If you said you would send something, do it within 24 to 72 hours. Send a short note to let them know you’re glad you met, even if you didn’t promise to follow through. Repeat something you talked about when you met by chance. Lastly, use your name, job title, and business card in your signing line to remind them who you are. Having a picture at the bottom of your email is also helpful.
When you meet someone new, it’s important to have the goal of getting to know them. And be open to new chances all the time.
Now, get out there and show them what you are capable of! Find your dream job on Jobstore.com, download our free mobile app today.
Anisa is a writer who focuses on career and lifestyle topics in an effort to motivate both job searchers and employers towards greater fulfillment in their professional lives.
Reach me at anisa@jobstore.com.
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