Last week, it was a treat to host Alan Stein on my WiseTalk podcast. We focused on how to use networking to find a new role. My favorite part was chatting about how to find “common ground.”
I posed to Alan that likability is key to successful networking and interviewing, and it starts with common ground. He agreed and then made an important distinction: “It’s not just about finding commonalities; it’s seeking UNCOMMON commonalities.”
I love this. This does require a bit more research and it’s bound to result in delight.
Like, “I see we both worked at Amazon” (common but not an uncommon commonality). Instead: “I know XXX, who worked with you there at Amazon; such a small world.”
Like, “I see we both went to Stanford.” Instead: “How cool, we both attended the Design School at Stanford. We are a rare breed.”
Here’s another example from back in the day:
In 2013, I had a gig with directors in a leadership development program. We utilized Mariposa content sprinkled with other speakers. I told the company liaison that I wanted to bring in Daniel Pink and that I was to hear him speak at an event that week. Dan was (and still is) a very sought-after speaker, so I had to find common ground and pitch him creatively.
That night, I managed to be the first in line for his “To Sell is Human” book signing. Ironically, this book is about “pitching a deal,” and I was about to pitch HIM! I knew he was a rabid baseball fan, as I am…that was our commonality! But many people have baseball in common, so I had to dig deeper to make it an “uncommon commonality.”
Here’s how the chat went:
Sue: “Hi Dan, I’m Sue. Thanks for your book and talk today. I am an Exec Coach and ask my clients to read your book all the time.”
Dan: “Appreciate that!”
Sue: “I hear you’re a big baseball fan. I saw that the Nationals won last night. Did you catch the game?”
Dan: “I did. Great that we won.”
Sue: “I am a big Giants fan.”
Dan: “That’s so great. Lucky you. Did you get to see any of the World Series last year?”
Sue: “YES, indeed! I actually was at Oracle Park for the first game when Pablo hit the three homers. It was crazy!”
Dan: “You REALLY are a big fan.”
Sue: “Do you know when the Nationals play the Giants here in SF this year?”
Dan: “I don’t, but I bet you do.”
Sue: “Yep, August 13-15. So, Dan…….would you consider speaking at XXXX company and attending a Nationals-Giants game that evening?
Dan smiled broadly. He seemed very delighted and said: “Sue…..now that’s a great pitch.”
Check out the WiseTalk podcast episode with Alan Stein:
