There are many paths to potential business success, and the superstars of direct selling know that building relationships with customers is critical to success.

But what if you are introverted by nature and have problems starting a conversation at all? Or what if a potential or existing customer is closed? How can you then try to build a relationship and thus secure the sale?

A good first step is to be honest and consider the questions or issues that will help you build a solid bond and develop trust.

Here are five conversation starters to get you on your way:

Events and happenings

Regardless of background, experience or knowledge, we are all affected by the same things. But instead of talking about the weather, which can seem trivial, try talking about a current event in the news.

Yes, issues such as race, religion and politics, which are sensitive and can lead to heated debates, should be off the table. But there is no reason why articles from the local news pages, e.g. from the areas of sport, business or lifestyle, cannot serve as icebreakers.

A tip: Do your research in advance and think about which topics might interest your customers. You can search their social media pages, especially their LinkedIn profiles, for clues.

Interests and passions

As with general events, it’s easy to talk about common preferences. But why not talk about your prospect’s or customer’s passions instead of your own?

People like to talk about what they love most, whether it’s a long-standing interest or a new hobby. For example, ask how your customers spend their free time and what their life is like after work.

Yes, these questions may seem commonplace. But many sales stars have found that listening to a person’s interests and passions can be the key to a better relationship with them.

Family, friends and pets

As a rule, sales talks should not be conducted on personal topics. However, many people who opt for direct sales do so in order to provide a better life for their loved ones.

So as long as you’re respectful, there’s no harm in getting personal and taking an interest in a customer’s family or even their furry friends, for example.

Of course, family can be a sensitive topic for some. It is therefore advisable to start slowly, with safe questions such as “How many siblings do you have?” or “Do you have children/pets?” Based on your customers’ answers, you can see whether they want to continue the conversation. Just be ready to move on to another topic.

Inspiring stories and reports

Everyone loves a good story, and in business, the more inspiring the story, the better. So why not draw on QN Europe’s many success stories and chat about them with your prospects and customers?

Stories can stimulate the imagination of the listener, make messages clearer and convey a picture of what is possible. So by using the positive testimonials of QN Europe entrepreneurs and customers, your sales targets will undoubtedly gain a better insight into QN Europe and our products and services.

By the way: You don’t have to limit your storytelling to business. The RYTHM Foundation has so many stories of hope and inspiration that people should know about.

Topics that make you think

Although controversial topics should generally not be brought up, as you get to know your customers and prospects better, you should bring up topics that could lead to more open and frank discussions.

Admittedly, questions like “What do you think of entrepreneurship?” and “What were your first impressions of direct selling, and how have they changed?” don’t necessarily help you generate sales and close deals. Nevertheless, the answers you receive can provide valuable insights for building even closer relationships between customers and direct sellers.

And the best thing is that you can clear up certain questions or doubts.

Ultimately, however, it depends on what feels natural. So don’t be rigid in your approach, listen actively, concentrate on your counterpart and, above all, be honest.