September 15, 2010 / authordave

Want To Catch Career Opportunities? Use A Hook!

How do YOU make a memorable first impression?

I’m not talking about a firm handshake and a toothy smile followed by, “Nice weather we’re having, yadda-yadda-yadda.” I mean laying the groundwork for serious future networking, teambuilding and career opportunities.

What do you say that makes you the “go to person” or sets you apart from the competition? If you don’t know, then it’s time to stop thinking about the weather and come up with a winning game plan.

Participants in my recent training seminars are focused more than ever on making memorable impressions. Most are employed and working in customer service or involved with in-house training, while others are polishing resumes and job-winning communication skills. In this economy, the goal is to be the “go to person” and rise above the competition.

One method you should consider is using a “hook” to open both verbal and written communications. The idea is similar to the marketing and delivery techniques I share in my workshops when coaching speakers and performers. Personality counts and if you have one, (I know you do!), then there’s no reason why you can’t use it for your benefit.

What is a “hook?”

Imagine you’re fishing with an invisible rod and reel. You cast out the line and your “hook” catches attention and interest in what you will say next. Examples of million dollar hooks include, “Welcome home,” (Disney), and “You might be a redneck if…” (Jeff Foxworthy). Of course these hooks wouldn’t necessarily work in your profession, but they are attention getters and memorable enough to be called famous.

How do you create a hook?

It’s very simple. Who are you and what do you want people to know about you? I’ll give you a hint about what I use and why, but first here’s an example sent in by one of my students, who is also president of a Toastmasters club based in a large medical facility in a large city. She gives two examples – one simple and one a bit(e) extreme that was used on The King of Rock’n Roll…

Following an article I wrote on the value of using a hook in verbal communication, I received an email from Dahmia, which is a name that immediately attracts your attention. How many Dahmia’s do you know? That’s not important, but it is Hawaiian and her introductory “hook” takes advantage of what makes her unique from others in a northern climate. Here’s what she sent me:

“We were just today talking about how I always start any conversation or even a passing in the hallway with ‘Aloha’ and you’re right – it usually gets a positive reaction and a smile. Depending on the circumstances a whole conversation can ensue of when they went to Hawaii or always wanted to go, etc. There’s always some reaction and that’s what we want. I hope it’s a favorable reaction but either way they don’t ignore me.”

That was the simple example. Now for the other extreme – and keep in mind that was not a typo above when I dropped the hint bit(e)!

“I recall a guy talking about meeting Elvis. He was an up and coming singer at the time so to meet Elvis, who was an icon, was very exciting. What he did though was drop down on the floor – grabbed Elvis’ leg and bit him on the ankle. Needless to say Elvis was taken aback and shouted, ‘What’s wrong with you man?’ To which the less known singer said, ‘Well, if I had just shook your hand that would be it. But now you’ll remember me.’ Elvis had to laugh as it was certainly true and this story has survived for 40 years.”

Dahmia’s described both a laid-back, (“Aloha”), and over-the-top, (bite Elvis’ leg!?), example of using a hook to make a memorable first impression. I know either one would stick in your memory longer than a hand shake and, “Nice weather we’re having…” opening line.

Personality makes the best hook:

So – do you have an “Aloha” or something unique about yourself to open a conversation? It doesn’t have to be exotic. Fun and memorable will work just fine. Who are you and what do you do? If you can work it into your opening line, people will be more interested in hearing what you say next.

As for my hook, well… I’m a Gemini and the stars allow me to have two. One is on my voice mail if you’d like to call, (sorry, but you’ll have to go back to the newsletter for the toll-free number!). But here’s a warning: be prepared to make me laugh.

The second hook relies on my location and one of my programs. Here’s a clue – I’m based in Cleveland and my third book has the city’s name in its title. If you send an email to Dave@DavePresents.com with a number and time to call you, it’ll be my opening, (first impression), line when you answer your phone. Aloha for now!

Dave Schwensen is a consultant, instructor, coach and author in communications and presentation skills. Topics include customer service, team-building and networking. For more information and to schedule, visit www.TalkingForSuccess.com.