Starting a conversation with a US client can be nerve-wracking, especially if you are not familiar with their culture and communication style. However, it is an essential skill that can help you build strong relationships and close deals. In this article, you will learn how to start a conversation with a US client, build rapport, and make the client a paying client.
This same strategy I want to share, I have used it to cold message over 5,000 prospects on social media, LinkedIn, and Twitter, just to mention a few, and it has generated over $250,000 in revenue for me.
To start a conversation with a US client, it is essential to understand their communication style. Americans tend to be direct and to the point, so it is best to avoid small talk and get straight to the point.
But just starting a conversation isn’t all there is, let’s dive deeper into how to start a conversation with a U.S. client, and how to make sure the conversation turns into something profitable for you.
3 Key Takeaways
- Understand the US communication style and values, such as directness and punctuality.
- Prepare for the conversation by researching the client and preparing a list of questions.
- Show your interest and expertise by asking relevant questions and being well-informed about the client’s needs and expectations.
Tips to Help You Start a Conversation with a US Client
Whether you want to pitch a prospect, or you want to initiate conversations with a client from the US, these tips would help you.
Research the Client
If this is about a business proposal, researching the client will help you know which angle you would like to come in from.
With this initial research, you are able to know some likes, dislikes, interests, and topics that the client is pretty much concerned about. That way, you keep saying things that will keep the client engaged and interested in the conversation.
Let’s say a client has complained in the past about how useless it is to hire Digital agencies to grow a small business, starting a conversation with a proposal to hire your digital agency won’t end in a good way.
This is why it is important to research a client and know how, where, and what to say, that would spark a conversation.
Highlight Intended Accomplishments
To start a conversation with a US client, make sure you know what you want before the conversation starts.
If there are specific goals or objectives for the conversation, make sure to write down what you need to accomplish with the discussion. This will help you know when to exit, to avoid being viewed as a disturbance. If there are any outstanding items that need to be addressed, make sure to follow up promptly.
Introduce yourself professionally.
The next step would be to introduce yourself in a professional manner. You shouldn’t spend time talking about your family background or where you grew up.
Your introduction should be related to whatever you want to be in your conversation with the US client.
If you want them to invest in your startup, then your introduction should revolve around how you’ve developed several startups and have exited them with millions of dollars in revenue.
If you want them to buy a house from you, then your introduction should revolve around helping your clients buy underpriced houses.
Say what you know about them.
This is where you wow the client by telling the client what you know about them. It shows that you are following them, paying attention to what they do, and you’ve invested time.
To start a conversation with a US client like this will give you an edge because they love being impressed by little things.
You can use this as a guide.
“Hi David, I saw your post on which is the best A.I. tool to schedule posts and also host images, and I would love to drop a few opinions. I see that you own a website that helps seniors build cars. For that reason, I feel like I can offer some little advice. My name is Mike Bush, and I am the founder of XYZ company that also does something similar…”
That way you can then move to the next step.
Ask Questions
Asking questions is a great way to keep the conversation going and show the client that you are interested in what they have to say.
Make sure to ask open-ended questions that allow the client to give detailed answers. This will help you get a better understanding of their needs and goals.
Examples of good open-ended questions
- But what do you think of…
- When it comes to …, what is your opinion on that?
- What are your current …
Example of bad questions to ask.
- Are you interested in …
- Do you want …
- Is this…
Asking close-ended questions like the ones highlighted directly above will give you one-word answers, and that’s it. But when you ask open questions, it will force the client to talk more and open up to you.
Share knowledge
There is no complex meaning to this, then don’t allow the client to do most of the talking. If you continue to bombard the client with open-ended questions, you might start to look like a journalist or an investigator, which might become suspicious.
After the U.S. client gives you a couple of answers, the best choice going forward would be to highlight more on what the client says, then give your expert opinion and ask more questions.
This way, the conversation is two-way, and not just one person does all the talking and explaining.
Practice Active Listening
Active listening is an important skill that can help you maintain the conversation and build a strong working relationship with the client. Make sure to pay attention to what the client is saying and respond appropriately. This will show the client that you value their input and are committed to providing the best possible service.
Stay Focused on the Industry
During the conversation, it is important to stay focused on the industry in which the client operates. This will help you understand their business better and provide more relevant insights and solutions. Avoid going off-topic or discussing unrelated matters.
Tips to Have a Good Conversation with a US Client
To make your conversation with a US client better, these are some tips to help you along the way.
Keep the Conversation Starters Handy
Having a few conversation starters ready can help you keep the conversation going when it starts to slow down. These can be anything from current events to industry news or even personal interests. Just make sure they are appropriate and relevant to the conversation.
Practice Active Listening
Active listening is an important skill that can help you maintain the conversation and build a strong working relationship with the client. Make sure to pay attention to what the client is saying and respond appropriately. This will show the client that you value their input and are committed to providing the best possible service.
Takeaway
End the conversation with a clear takeaway for the client. This could be the next step in the process, a follow-up action item, or simply a thank you for your time. Make sure the takeaway is actionable and relevant to the discussion.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some effective ways to start a conversation with a US client?
Starting a conversation with a US client can be intimidating, but there are a few effective ways to break the ice. One approach is to use small talk to establish a connection. Another approach is to ask open-ended questions that encourage the client to share more about themselves. For example, you might ask about their professional background or what they enjoy most about their job.
What are some common topics to discuss when starting a conversation with a US client?
When starting a conversation with a US client, it’s important to keep the topics professional and relevant. Some common topics to discuss might include industry news, recent company developments, or upcoming projects. You might also ask about the client’s goals and challenges to gain a better understanding of their needs and how you can help.
How do you maintain a professional tone when conversing with a US client?
Maintaining a professional tone is key when having a conversation with a US client. Some tips to keep in mind include speaking clearly and confidently, avoiding slang or jargon, and staying focused on the client’s needs and goals. It’s also important to be respectful and courteous, even if the conversation becomes challenging.
Conclusion
We all share similar traits that make us humans, but culture and background have a lot to play when it comes to how we react to things. To start a conversation with a US client, you must be prepared, know how to open the conversation, know how to keep them engaged, and how to exit the conversation on a high note. This would set you on a better position, should there be a need for a follow-up.
