Practical guides
A strong opening makes room for a good conversation
Explain why your story could matter to the other person, then make room to listen.
Start with value for the person you are speaking to
A sales pitch briefly explains what your organisation offers and why it may be interesting. The aim is not a rehearsed monologue, but a relevant reason to continue the conversation.
Choose one recognisable starting point
Which ambition, question or development could the other person recognise? Connect your offer to that in ordinary language. Listing every service often makes the opening less clear. Choose what matters to this audience.
Prepare, then listen to the answer
Research what the organisation does and what information is available. Use only relevant, substantiated starting points. A prepared opening helps, but the response determines where the conversation goes next.
Choose a next step that fits
Sometimes an introductory appointment is appropriate. Sometimes more information or a later conversation is better. Make the next step specific and record the agreement, so your team can carefully build on the first conversation.
