“Ghostbusters”. Remember that from the 80s? Bill Murray, Dan Aykroyd.
Whenever I get on the SA Phone Meetings, I often associate someone’s name with a famous celebrity. For example, today on the 9:15 am phone bridge there was a guy named Quentin. So, I thought of Quentin Tarantino.
I even do this with my Uber passengers. As a driver, I need to identify my customers by first name only. So, when they get in the cab, I ask them, “do you know anyone famous (besides yourself of course)”?
This always serves as a good ice breaker and gets the conversation started. Also, most people are often flattered which is exactly what tthe book, “How to Win Friends and Influence People” suggests.
Incidently, the other day we had Keith Richards from Rolling Stones on the call. George Washington, born 1732 is a frequent participant 🙂
If I’m feeling particularly creative, I may take the time to look up the famous celebrity on Google. => https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/George_Washington. Abraham Lincoln, born 1809 => https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abraham_Lincoln. Sir Winston Churchill, born 1874 => https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winston_Churchill
Next, comes geographic location. When people say where they are calling from, I immediately think about whether or not I have visited that city, state or country, perhaps.
Again, I start making associations. Like sports teams, slogans, etc.
What kinds of people do you notice at meetings?
The Texter – Often a newcomer, you know the top of this woman’s head well, since her face is always directed down towards her phone. She taps furiously before meetings and during the break to appear busy and avoid making direct eye contact or meeting new people.