Hey everyone,
When it comes to breaking the ice at networking events or open houses, I’ve found that a little preparation and a lot of authenticity go a long way. Here’s what works for me:
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Start with a relatable observation: Whether it’s the weather (my meteorology hobby comes in handy here!) or something unique about the event space, I try to find a common ground to kick off the conversation. For example, “Can you believe how quickly the weather changed today? It’s perfect for checking out homes, though!”
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Ask open-ended questions: Instead of the usual “What do you do?”, I like to ask things like, “What brought you to this event today?” or “What’s your favorite part of the neighborhood so far?” It gets people talking about what matters to them.
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Share a quick DIY tip: Since I’m into DIY projects, I’ll often mention a small home improvement hack or ask if they’ve tackled any fun projects lately. It’s a great way to connect with fellow DIY enthusiasts and keep the conversation light.
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Have a story ready: I always keep a few interesting real estate stories in my back pocket—like the time I helped a client find their dream home after months of searching. People love hearing about real-life wins, and it helps build trust.
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Be genuinely curious: I make it a point to listen more than I talk. People appreciate when you show interest in their experiences, and it often leads to deeper, more meaningful connections.
What about you all? Any favorite icebreakers or strategies that have worked well for you? I’m always looking to add new tools to the toolkit!
Cheers,
Bruce