1. Start with an introduction and an easy question
"Hi, I'm Jane Doe from _____. Who are you?"
While this may seem like a blunt introduction, Stoker says that you have to start with a simple, innocuous question like this to build a rapport.
"Asking questions is the easiest way to deepen or create a relationship with someone," he says.
2. Affirm the meeting
"If you make the first move by introducing yourself and taking an interest in the person, you will help to set them at ease, which will help you to establish a relationship with the person that could pay huge returns," he says.
But you'll want to go a step further and tell them how excited you are to be meeting them.
Try something like "I'm so glad we had a chance to meet today," "I'm so happy we're finally meeting!" or "It certainly is a pleasure to meet you today."
3. Use their name — often
"People love to hear their name," Stoker says.
So address them by it whenever possible.
It tells them that you really listened to their introduction and that you're engaged in the conversation.
4. Explore their interests
Stoker suggests asking thoughtful — but non-threatening — questions that will help them to reveal themselves to you. For instance, you can ask about their interests, hobbies, or passion projects.
You can also make observations and ask questions about those. For example, "I noticed the tennis-racket charm on your necklace. Do you play?"
