Running a successful sector in any business can be quite a daunting task these days, due to there being such a lot of competition in every segment. This is particularly true for startups in the FinTech and Bitcoin industries, where so much attention and money is in circulation that it becomes hard to keep track of who is doing what. This is why it is important to have a proper conversation with consumers, investors, and other partners.
Also read: Banks Compete With Fintech And Bitcoin For Financial Attention From Consumers
Conversation is Key In The Business World
There are a few different aspects to keep in mind when it comes to having a good conversation. The term “good” can be widely used in this scenario, but we are focusing on the business side of things in this story. Having a proper conversation from a business point of view is vastly different than going on a date or talking to friends.
Networking comes natural to some people, whereas others feel uncomfortable doing so. While people can train themselves to become better at networking, it’s not so much the things you wear that matter, but more the way you behave yourself. More importantly, the things coming out of one’s mouth define a discussion, and staying professional at all times will go a long way.
Oddly enough, the beverage you are consuming during your conversation will tell a lot about you as a person. Coffee is the most preferred drink for business talks, but water or soft drinks are perfectly acceptable as well. For some reason, business people holding a drink looks rather unintelligent, according to one particular study.
Avoiding eye contact during a conversation is an absolute no-no. Granted, looking someone straight in the face at all times can be quite difficult, and letting your eyes wander now and then for a second or two is not a mood killer. However, when you are addressing someone, or they are addressing you, the eyes are up there.
Small talk is something one is either good at, or completely fails at making into any kind of conversation. Keeping in mind we are looking at things from a business perspective, skipping small talk might be the best way to go. If the other person is interested in finding out more about your personal life, they will ask you about it. Substantive conversations are key in the world of FinTech and Bitcoin, so keep it professional at all times.
No one likes to have a monolog, so make sure to engage your conversational partner(s) to talk about themselves as much as possible. This creates a more amicable atmosphere and helps break the ice when meeting new people. Plus, you are showing an openness to the other person in the conversation, which is a proper business practice.
Other things to most certainly avoid include looking at your mobile device during a conversation. When engaging in a conversation with someone else, they should have your undivided attention at any given time. Shifting your focus to a mobile device in the midst of a conversation will cost you a lot of credibility.
Avoid Awkward Endings
Following all of the above steps will make your FinTech or Bitcoin conversation a lot smoother and professional. Both of these topics are difficult enough to tackle as is, and making the conversation even more awkward is not something either party will benefit from. Speaking of awkward moments during a conversation, ending the discussion can be quite uncomfortable as well.
There are different approaches to ending a conversation in the Bitcoin and FinTech industry. A firm statement or a polite hinting are most commonly used. But one can also turn the table, make excuses, or get help from a third party by moving on to a different conversation partner. Just avoid being rude, vanishing without saying a word, or becoming non-responsive, and you will be fine.
What are your conversational tips for the FinTech and Bitcoin industry? Let us know in the comments below!
Source: Startup VCs Blog
Images courtesy of Shutterstock
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