Life Lessons in Adding Value to Any Conversation
“Hey, I’m Ashley and you are?” ”So...what industry do you work in?” Blah Blah Blah. Networking is boring and now that we’re all stuck at home without the traditional after work cocktail hour to provide us company, it’s worse than ever. Making meaningful connections with strangers over the internet can be challenging (hello, online dating) and with Zoom fatigue running rampant, maybe you’ve given up networking and decided to go at it alone.
Wrong idea.
Here are three strategies for adding value to any conversation, a critical skill in making more money and having more impact at work.
Find a meaningful connection point.
Sure, you both love dobermans and, yeah, you both have kids around the same age but people really connect with things that are unique, out of the routine, and personal. I’m not telling you to spill your guts but one proven way to build connection is to find a meaningful similarity beyond the obvious.
Have your “I’m looking forward to...” message down.
When you’re new to an organization or a relationship, it’s hard to know what to say or how to add value because you feel like you haven’t done anything impressive yet. That’s OK. The key is to speak futuristically and share what you’re looking forward to doing. Confidently state that you are looking forward to partnering with Kisha on her projects, or speak to how you are looking forward to improving the client retention numbers with your latest strategy. If you haven’t had time to add value, speak futuristically and people will be excited to watch for what’s on the horizon.
Leverage “Yes, and...”
You don’t have to lead every conversation but you should never leave it without adding value. When someone says something you agree with, something that you’re also knowledgeable about, or something that you have a take on, say, “Yes, and…” and share your perspective, view point, or idea.