Use Conversation Starters to Build Connection – Online and Offline
We went to a Kentucky Derby party this weekend. You know the kind: seersucker suits, fascinators (the fancy hats that the ladies wear), mint juleps flowing.
But what struck me wasn’t the race – it was the conversations.
And more importantly: what started them.
Let me tell you about the people
- A guy in a pale-yellow bowtie and sky-blue trousers. Tiny embroidered horses everywhere – the tie and the pants.
- A woman with a tote that read: You had me at Bourbon – needlepointed by hand.
- A man in a striped fedora. I immediately greeted him: “Judge Smails, I presume?”
(Caddyshack fans know.)
Each one of these people had unknowingly deployed a strategy I teach in my Digital Validation course: Make it easy for someone to start a conversation with you.
Online, It’s the Same Game
We tend to think of LinkedIn or other platforms as static: “Here’s my job title. Here’s my resume.”
But that’s not connection – it’s just data.
To build real relationships (and open new doors), you’ve got to give people handles – grip points they can grab onto.
Just like in person.
Examples from LinkedIn
✅ A banner image of Big Bend or the Eiffel Tower = “I’ve been there too! When did you go?”
✅ A headline that says Helping Small Brands Think Big = “I love that line. What’s your backstory?”
✅ A featured section with a downloadable checklist = “I used your tool last week. Mind if I ask a question?”
✅ A pinned comment where you talk about mentoring first-gen college students = “That really resonated with me. My daughter is first-gen too.”
You’re planting seeds for someone else to follow up.
You’re giving them something to comment on.
You’re inviting connection.
💡 Why It Works
We remember stories, not stats. People, not resumes.
If you want to make your professional presence memorable, you don’t need to be loud or salesy. You just need to be relatable. A hobby. A clever turn of phrase. A movie reference (Judge Smails FTW). A bold visual (like the bourbon purse).
These tiny things open doors – and they help people remember you.
✅ How to Add Conversation Starters Online
Here’s where to drop them in:
| Area | How to Add a Conversation Starter |
| Profile Banner | Use a photo of a place you love or something you support. |
| Headline | Inject a little humanity – your mission, your vibe, or a fun twist. |
| About Section | Share a story. Mention how you got into your field. Add one non-work interest. |
| Featured Section | Include work and personal wins. Did you speak at a conference? Post a photo. |
| Content | Post a tip. Share a story. React to something in your industry with your take. |
| Comments | Use humor, insight, or curiosity. That’s where the magic of engagement begins. |
Final Thought
At the Derby party, no one led with their job title. They led with style, humor and personality.
Do the same on LinkedIn.
Be human. Be interesting. Give people a reason to say, “Hey… I loved that thing you posted.”
That’s where connection begins.
