5 Tips To Connect With Anyone, Anywhere
So often we rarely take time to connect with the people right in front of us. Here are some worthwhile tips to connect with those around you.

You literally get 30–60 seconds to make a first impression. When networking, that could be the start to your end or the beginning of an epic connection. I’m constantly looking for opportunities to network. I could be in my local Trader Joe’s or grabbing coffee at one of the many Starbucks in NYC. I never overlook the opportunity of meeting someone new. Disclaimer: every person you meet will not be offering you a job but may offer you some food for thought or expand your knowledge in some way. These are the interactions I value the most. I’ve outlined some tips to help you avoid having the embarrassing moments I once had..
1. Eye to Eye
Too often when we meet new people our gaze tends to wander. Good solid eye contact is hard to come by. I register how engaged the person is by their level of eye contact. This is also a way to determine whether or not this conversation is worth your time. Both parties have to be willing in this transaction. If the eyes aren’t in it, then gracefully bow out.
2. Bait and hook
When I meet someone new I tend to make everything about them. It’s almost like romancing them to get them talking, but once they say something I can connect to I pounce on my opportunity. People are more likely to remember you if you share something in common with them and you connect over it. This may assist in your follow-up.
3. One in the same
When you’ve found an experience that you’ve both connected on, now is your opportunity to relate. Share an experience or your opinion on the connecting topic. This gives them more insight into who you are by building off of the connection. It makes you memorable. People like to see themselves in everything.
4. Follow for a Follow
The exchange is where you decide how you want to stay connected or leave it at a nice conversation you’ve just had. The days of business card swaps are less prevalent, so don’t be afraid to say, “ I’ll add you on LinkedIn.” A way to tie it in is by saying “I’d like to follow your success in your future endeavors, look for my request on LinkedIn.” A little flattery goes a long way.
5. Reset and reconnect
If you have not created a need for that person to engage with you then the follow up is all on you. Only follow up if you have something meaningful to say or provide further contact information. I usually debate on a memorable approach. I stick with something light hearted but still provides an open door for additional conversation to flow. I’m always baiting my catch of the day. I may say something vague but complimentary like “Thanks to you I’m officially dreaming of Greece. I’ll be reaching out for guidance as I plan!” Here is where you can set the stage for ongoing conversation.

I’ve had experiences where this has played out almost like an instructional video and other times its been painful but it’s all helped me get to the point of no shame. I’m not afraid to laugh at myself and keep it moving.
I hope these tips help you look at networking differently and give you the push your looking for. Just remember when in doubt, just be yourself. Eventually you’ll find you own style of doing this and hopefully have some fun as you do.

