We all can benefit from a few reminders about socializing, whether it's for business or for fun. (Photo: Shutterstock)
You are good at making small talk. You know how to work a room and get people talking. But every so often, something happens – the mood changes and you wonder “What did I do wrong?” Here are eight mistakes to avoid in social situations.
1. Moving too quickly. You mention you are an insurance professional. From their reaction, you assume they are fascinated. You start talking about business. You ask questions about the insurance they carry and who is their agent. They start to back away.
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Bryce Sanders
Bryce Sanders, president of Perceptive Business Solutions Inc., has provided training for the financial services industry on high-net-worth client acquisition since 2001. He trains financial professionals on how to identify prospects within the wealthiest 2%-5% of their market, where to meet and socialize with them, how to talk with wealthy people and develop personal relationships, and how to transform wealthy friends into clients. Bryce spent 14 years with a major financial services firm as a successful financial advisor, two years as a district sales manager and four years as a home office manager. He developed personal relationships within the HNW community through his past involvement as a Trustee of the James A. Michener Art Museum, Board of Associates for the Bucks County Chapter of the Fox Chase Cancer Center, Board of Trustees for Stevens Institute of Technology and as a church lector. Bryce has been published in American City Business Journals, Barrons, InsuranceNewsNet, BenefitsPro, The Register, MDRT Round the Table, MDRT Blog, accountingweb.com, Advisorpedia and Horsesmouth.com. In Canada, his articles have appeared in Wealth Professional. He is the author of the book “Captivating the Wealthy Investor.”
