From the course: Nano Tips for Confident Small Talk That Builds Connection at Work with Jessica Chen

Starting the conversation in an unfamiliar environment

- Feeling stuck and not knowing what to say when you walk into a new environment? Here's the thing, taking initiative isn't about dominating a conversation. It's about getting it started. Even a simple hello can change how others perceive you. In fact, research shows people who take the lead, even in subtle ways, are seen as more influential. So ask yourself this simple question. What am I trying to say here? That one pause before you even start speaking can turn your scattered thoughts into purposeful words. In fact, this is called streamlined thinking. And it's how you can build confidence, speak clearly, and lead to more engaging conversations. So remember, don't overthink it. Building influence with strangers is about taking the lead, and you can simply start with, hello.

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