How you should end your four most common work conversations

We speak approximately 16,000 words a day. Ideally, we want our words and ideas to make a difference–particularly in the workplace. And for that to happen, our ideas must lead to action. We need to end our conversations with a call to action.

Too often we hesitate when it comes to the “ask.” We let our words hang in the air–and hope that our listeners pursue the next steps.

Don’t assume your goals will be clear. You need to end every conversation (whether written or spoken)  by spelling out the actions you want taken. As I explain in my book Impromptu, “the call to action gives legs to your message by transforming an idea into actionable steps. In so doing, it makes your script an act of motivational leadership.”

Whether you’re in a networking conversation, an exchange in the corridor, sales call, or email chat, here’s how to tell your listeners how you want your message to be acted upon.

1.NETWORKING CONVERSATION

Networking conversations are the “bread and butter” of getting ahead in business. So get them right. Begin with a clear message–and follow through to the “ask.” Suppose you’re at a business conference, and you’re talking to an executive whose firm has advertised a to-die-for job. Approach this executive and begin a conversation with a clear message: You are interested in the position.

Read more: How you should end your four most common work conversations