10Things to Say in a Surprise Encounter
with an Intimidatingly Successful Person
We’ve all been there – a chance meeting with someone AWE inspiring
An EXECUTIVE
A revered LEADER
A CELEBRITY
Use these 10 IDEAS to avoid being tongue-tied
#1. Ask about something the person is known for
"I loved your [book, movie, speech] and was intrigued by your comments about… Would you
tell me more about that?”
#2. What’s so interesting?
• Read something (eg. email, text, newspaper article, elevator sign etc.)
• Visibly react to it (eg. laugh, exclaim, sigh, gasp)
• Share it (eg. Did you know…?)
“I'm involved with a charity that's trying to... Do you have any suggestions on how we could raise awareness, money etc.”
#3. Ask for help – on behalf of someone else
#4. Offer help
“I hear you’re involved with [insert cause here]. I’m looking for volunteer opportunities. Could I be of service?”
#5. Oops I dropped my…
Drop something - it’s a little “junior high” but the simple human kindness of
responding to a person in need creates a connection
#6. Express gratitudeEveryone wants to know what they do is making a difference.
“Your [book, speech, advice] changed my life”
Having the opportunity to compliment someone else is even better.“I had a great experience with your company's service and I thought you
might want to recognize the employee”
#7. Food is the great leveler
“If you like that, you’ve got to try…”“You might want to avoid…”“Can I get you something from the bar?”
#8. Use a propComment on and ask about:• Books, magazines, newspapers• Interesting* glasses, ties,
bags, shoes• Music, art• Sports equipment
* SINCERE compliments NEVER go out of style. If an item isn’t truly noteworthy, commenting on it will appear phony.
#9. Be a prop
Look INTERESTING and people will approach you!• Wear something distinctive
• Carry interesting reading material (visibly)
#10. Use a Lifeline
If you’ve got a few minutes to plan your approach, Tweet your network for ideas
Guiding Principles
Be interesting -
Read, meet people, have
hobbies, go outside your
comfort zone
Add value - offer ideas, help, connections
Connect as a human being, not as a title
NEVER…Gossip
Ask for business
Kiss up
Complain
The (not so secret) SECRET is…
These ideas don’t just work with important* people…
…they work with ANYONE
* “IMPORTANT” people are people too
Good luck!
Let us know how it goeswww.upsideconsulting.com
@AyoungUpside