01 — Skip "What do you do?" Try: "What's been on your mind lately?" 02 — Share first. Go slightly deeper than expected. They'll often match your level. 03 — Follow the energy, not the topic. When their eyes light up—ask more about THAT. 04 — Use "What" and "How" instead of Yes/No questions. 05 — Name the elephant. "I'm not great at small talk—can we skip to the good stuff?" The truth: Small talk isn't the enemy. Staying there is. Real connection is on the other side. These tips get you there faster. Save this for your next conversation.

If you've ever felt connecting with others is harder than it should be Watch this 11:00min video In it you'll discover: - 2 reasons people hate small talk - The #1 mistake people do that makes connection a chore (and how to avoid it) - The 3 C's to make connection a pleasurable experience for you and them. Enjoy! P.S. - I'm am working on a curriculum that helps people who feel like connecting with people is harder than is should be. Connection is a fundamental human need. But many feel more disconnected now than ever. The goal is to help people connect more so we thrive at home and work. This course will be free for you. And if you join live, you'll have a chance to get your specific questions answered. Course starts in March. I'll keep you posted.

"What do you do?" is a very common question to be asked by a person you've just met. The problem is that most responses lead to boring conversation and almost zero connection. In the Classroom there's a course on how to respond to that question called "Personal Brand Statement." But recently I've been playing with a new and simpler version. You can try it and give feedback on how it works for you. The result for me was astounding. Here's how the new version works. Start with authority Share the problem you solve State how you solve that problem (your offer) That's it. If it sounds simple, it's because it is. The problem is most people say "I'm an (insert job title) at (insert some place no one really cares about)." You will be different. You will stand out as a person who solves a relatable problem or a unique problem that's intriguing. Test this out and let me know how it works for you. -Coach Rico

You are what you practice is the obvious statement. But how do you practice connecting with others? All connection is a result of communication. Good communication = good connection. Bad communication = bad connection. That’s why here in The PACT, we teach Attractive Communication that you can practice in your everyday life. Do this and watch your social confidence and relationships improve from good to great! PS - Workshops coming soon on the 3 pillars of Attractive Communication on Jan 8

How was your weekend? A question you will likely get asked today and tomorrow. How will you answer in a way that’s makes you look confident and your life full and interesting - without being fake? Do this right and you’ll gain status and connection. Don’t do this and you’ll miss the opportunity of the above 👆 Practice in this safe community by telling us in the comments. Then practice with others.