10Things to Say in a Surprise Encounter

with an Intimidatingly Successful Person

We’ve all been there – a chance meeting with someone AWE inspiring

An EXECUTIVE

A revered LEADER

A CELEBRITY

Use these 10 IDEAS to avoid being tongue-tied

#1. Ask about something the person is known for

"I loved your [book, movie, speech] and was intrigued by your comments about… Would you

tell me more about that?”

#2. What’s so interesting?

• Read something (eg. email, text, newspaper article, elevator sign etc.)

• Visibly react to it (eg. laugh, exclaim, sigh, gasp)

• Share it (eg. Did you know…?)

“I'm involved with a charity that's trying to... Do you have any suggestions on how we could raise awareness, money etc.”

#3. Ask for help – on behalf of someone else

#4. Offer help

“I hear you’re involved with [insert cause here]. I’m looking for volunteer opportunities. Could I be of service?”

#5. Oops I dropped my…

Drop something - it’s a little “junior high” but the simple human kindness of

responding to a person in need creates a connection

#6. Express gratitudeEveryone wants to know what they do is making a difference.

“Your [book, speech, advice] changed my life”

Having the opportunity to compliment someone else is even better.“I had a great experience with your company's service and I thought you

might want to recognize the employee”

#7. Food is the great leveler

“If you like that, you’ve got to try…”“You might want to avoid…”“Can I get you something from the bar?”

#8. Use a propComment on and ask about:• Books, magazines, newspapers• Interesting* glasses, ties,

bags, shoes• Music, art• Sports equipment

* SINCERE compliments NEVER go out of style. If an item isn’t truly noteworthy, commenting on it will appear phony.

#9. Be a prop

Look INTERESTING and people will approach you!• Wear something distinctive

• Carry interesting reading material (visibly)

#10. Use a Lifeline

If you’ve got a few minutes to plan your approach, Tweet your network for ideas

Guiding Principles

Be interesting -

Read, meet people, have

hobbies, go outside your

comfort zone

Add value - offer ideas, help, connections

Connect as a human being, not as a title

NEVER…Gossip

Ask for business

Kiss up

Complain

The (not so secret) SECRET is…

These ideas don’t just work with important* people…

…they work with ANYONE

* “IMPORTANT” people are people too

Good luck!

Let us know how it goeswww.upsideconsulting.com

@AyoungUpside