Imagine this scenario: You’ve just received your morning newspaper, and you’re settling down with a cup of coffee to catch up on the latest news. But instead of heading straight to your usual section, whether it’s international news, fashion, sports, or entertainment, I encourage you to try something different. Turn to a section you rarely explore. Why, you ask? Because this simple act can open up a world of opportunities for you to connect with anyone, regardless of your shared interests. Let’s delve into this technique and uncover its potential.
Expanding Your Horizons
We all have our comfort zones, even when it comes to reading the news. But if you limit yourself to the same sections day after day, you’re missing out on the chance to familiarize yourself with diverse topics and engage in meaningful conversations. By occasionally exploring unfamiliar sections, you’ll broaden your knowledge base and be better equipped to converse with people from various walks of life.
Real Estate Revelations
Consider, for instance, the real estate section. Perhaps you find it less than thrilling. However, sooner or later, you might find yourself in a group discussing property investments, real estate deals, or today’s market trends. By periodically scanning the real estate section, you’ll stay up to date with their conversations. Even if it’s not your passion, a basic understanding can go a long way.
Advertising Insights
How about the advertising column? You might think that the world would be a better place without the influence of Madison Avenue. But if you can’t hold your own discussing marketing matters with a professional you’ve hired for your business, it can cost you dearly. By taking a peek at the advertising news section, you’ll become conversant in topics like campaigns, creativity, and industry terminology. You’ll go from saying words to speaking copy and from mentioning agencies to casually referring to “the shop.” Using insider words can elevate your conversation and make you sound like you belong.
The Magic of the Right Word
Language is a powerful tool, and using the right word can work conversational miracles. Just consider the story of a cruise ship passenger who unwittingly revealed their landlubber status by referring to the vessel as a “boat” instead of a “ship.” On the ship, such a slip would elicit groans from the crew. In different contexts, the choice of words matters. For example, addressing a captain as a “master” and asking about their “first command” rather than calling them a “captain” and inquiring about their “first boat” can lead to more engaging and informative conversations.
An Addiction to Knowledge
Once you start diversifying your reading habits and venturing into different sections of the newspaper, you may become addicted to the high of establishing rapport with a wide range of people. All it takes is reading various sections to become a more versatile conversationalist.
Dive Deeper with Trade Journals
If you crave an even more extensive vocabulary and a deeper understanding of different fields, consider reading trade journals. These specialized magazines are typically circulated within specific industries. Borrow one from a friend in a different profession, and you’ll gain access to insider knowledge and the latest industry trends. Whether it’s “Automotive News,” “Restaurant Business,” “Pool and Spa News,” or “Trucking Industry,” there’s a publication for nearly every sector. Reading even a single issue can provide you with a wealth of knowledge.
Exploring Hobbies and Interests
Don’t limit your reading exploration to professional realms. Dive into magazines related to hobbies and interests. Whether it’s running, fitness, cycling, skiing, swimming, surfing, or any other passion, there’s a magazine for it. Large magazine stores stock a plethora of niche publications, from biker magazines to boxing publications and from bowling journals to bull-riding periodicals. By flipping through these magazines, you’ll not only gain knowledge about various interests but also discover the lingo and hot topics that enthusiasts love to discuss.
TECHNIQUE #41 – READ THEIR RAGS
Is your next big client a golfer, runner, swimmer, surfer, or skier? Are you attending a social function filled with accountants or Zen Buddhists—or anything in between? There are untold thousands of monthly magazines serving every imaginable interest. You can dish up more information than you’ll ever need to sound like an insider with anyone just by reading the rags that serve their racket. (Have you read your latest copy of Zoonooz yet?)
In conclusion, becoming a modern-day Renaissance person means being comfortable and confident in any setting, no matter where you are in the world. By expanding your horizons through reading diverse sections and publications, you can engage with anyone and leave a lasting impression. So, the next time you reach for your newspaper or a magazine, remember that every page turned is an opportunity to learn, connect, and grow as a conversational virtuoso.