This week’s tip is a subtle thing you can do to give yourself an advantage in one-on-one conversations: RESEARCH. If you’re a TV Host about to interview someone, a business owner about to pitch a client, or a job seeker about to meet with the hiring manager, research that person and learn something special about them.

Here’s an example: I recently had an important phone call with an agent. Before the call, I looked him up on LinkedIn and found out we went to the same high school. That was the first thing I said to him on the call and it led to a great conversation. Literally one minute of research on my part led to an icebreaker and established a comfortable way to get into our conversation.

I do the same thing when I interview people on TV – I try to find something we have in common and I mention it when I meet them. Here’s an example: before I interviewed Jon Hamm, my wife’s friend told me that when Jon was in Atlanta shooting a movie he frequented “King Of Pops” (where she works) for ice pops. So, I mentioned that to Jon when I walked into the room and we shared a laugh about it. That moment of bonding (over something as simple as ice pops) got him on my side and led to a better interview.

If you can figure out a natural, genuine way to establish a connection with someone, it can make a huge difference in ANY interaction. Just a few moments of research on your part can pay dividends!

If you’d like to work on your communication skills, or any other aspect of media coaching, just contact me.

Have a great day,

Dave

I hope these tips helped you and remember if you need media coaching, I’m a click away.

Dave