10 Great Conversation Starters for a New Salesperson

For a new salesperson, starting a conversation with a stranger can be daunting. It's important to engage quickly and establish a connection without coming off as overly salesy. Here are ten effective ways to initiate conversations, helping you to break the ice and create a positive impression.

1. "Hi! I noticed you’re interested in [related topic]. What do you think about it?"

This is a great way to start a conversation because it shows that you’re observant and interested in their opinions. It also creates an opportunity to discuss something they’re already invested in, making it easier to build rapport.

2. "Hello, I’m [Your Name]. What’s your favorite part about working in this field?"

This question is perfect for business events or industry gatherings. It’s direct but allows the person to share their passion or insights about their role. It also gives you a better understanding of their interests, which can guide the conversation naturally.

3. "I came across your profile and thought it was impressive! How did you get into this industry?"

People love to talk about their journey, and this opener invites them to share their story. It’s a great way to learn more about their background while making them feel valued and heard.

4. "Hey, I saw your recent post about [topic]. It’s something I’ve been curious about. What’s your take on it?"

If you’re connecting with someone on social media, referring to a recent post or update shows you’ve taken the time to learn about them. This makes your approach feel more genuine and less like a cold call.

5. "Hi, I’m new to this space and would love to hear your thoughts on [topic]."

People often appreciate being asked for advice. It’s a subtle way to make them feel like an expert while giving you the chance to learn from their experience. Plus, it’s a non-intimidating way to start a conversation.

6. "I see that we have a few connections in common! How do you know [mutual contact]?"

This approach works well on professional networks like LinkedIn. By referencing a mutual connection, you create an instant link, making it easier for the person to open up and engage in a dialogue.

7. "What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing in your role right now?"

This is a powerful question that gets right to the heart of their needs. It allows you to identify potential pain points and position yourself as someone who might be able to help. It’s a great way to steer the conversation toward areas where you can provide value.

8. "Hey, I’m curious—what motivated you to attend this event?"

If you’re at a conference or networking event, this is a simple way to strike up a conversation. It’s open-ended and invites the person to share their reasons for being there, which can then lead to a deeper discussion.

9. "Hi, what do you think is the next big thing in [industry]?"

This question shows that you’re forward-thinking and interested in trends. It can lead to an insightful discussion about future developments in their industry, giving you the chance to share your own thoughts and create a meaningful connection.

10. "I’ve heard great things about [company/industry]. What’s it like to work there?"

People often take pride in their workplace, and this question gives them the opportunity to share their experiences. It’s also a subtle way to learn more about the organization and its culture, which can be valuable information for future interactions.

Bonus Tips for a New Salesperson:

• Be Genuine: Authenticity goes a long way. People can sense when someone is being overly rehearsed. Focus on building a real connection before diving into a sales pitch.
• Listen More Than You Speak: A successful conversation is a two-way street. Listening to the other person can help you tailor your message to their needs.
• Be Prepared: Know who you’re speaking to and what their interests might be. A little research can make your conversation much more effective.

Starting a conversation with a stranger doesn’t have to be stressful. By using these approachable and open-ended questions, you’ll be well on your way to making meaningful connections and building relationships that can help drive your success as a salesperson.