Never Get Ghosted in Conversations Again

Summary

In this video, the speaker shares four strategies to prevent ghosting and enhance long-term connections after appointments. These strategies include being crystal clear on next steps, ensuring mutual actions are agreed upon, waterproofing the conversation by addressing potential challenges, and leading instead of chasing follow-ups. By maintaining clarity, commitment, and proactivity, individuals can avoid being ghosted, ensure effective communication, and foster lasting relationships with clients and contacts.

Takeaways

• 😀 Be clear on next steps after every appointment to prevent ghosting.
• 😀 Establish mutual action steps for both parties to ensure accountability.
• 😀 Future pacing the relationship ensures that both parties understand what will happen next.
• 😀 Creating a sense of commitment through mutual actions makes ghosting less likely.
• 😀 Avoid vague follow-ups like 'I'll leave it with you'—be specific about next actions.
• 😀 Waterproof your conversations by addressing potential issues before they arise.
• 😀 Acknowledge possible concerns in advance, such as decision fatigue or buyer’s remorse, to reduce ghosting.
• 😀 When reconnecting after an appointment, avoid chasing—lead the conversation.
• 😀 Use the OFQ framework (Opening, Fact, Question) to guide your follow-up conversations effectively.
• 😀 Ask past, present, and future questions to maintain the conversation and stay in the game long-term.
• 😀 Stay in control of the narrative by delivering value consistently, creating lasting relationships.

Q & A

What does being 'ghosted' mean in the context of this video?

Being 'ghosted' refers to a situation where you have a promising meeting or conversation with someone, and then they suddenly stop communicating with you, leaving you wondering why they no longer respond.

What is the first strategy to avoid being ghosted?

The first strategy is to be crystal clear on the next steps at the end of every meeting or conversation. Clearly outline what both parties will do next to ensure there is no ambiguity.

Why is it important to outline the next steps in a conversation?

Outlining the next steps future-paces the relationship, meaning you are setting clear expectations about what will happen next. This reduces the chances of being ghosted because the other person knows what to expect and is more likely to follow through.

What role does social indebtedness play in preventing ghosting?

Social indebtedness refers to the concept where both parties have committed to actions that are beneficial to each other. If both parties feel they have a stake in the outcome, they are less likely to ghost one another.

What does 'waterproofing' mean in the context of this video?

'Waterproofing' refers to setting realistic expectations about the future, including addressing potential objections or difficulties ahead of time. This can involve calling out potential issues or giving bad news alongside good news to prepare the person for what may come.

How does waterproofing help prevent ghosting?

Waterproofing helps prevent ghosting by preparing the other person for future challenges or complications, so they are less likely to back out or stop communicating. By being upfront, you build trust and reduce the likelihood of disappointment after the appointment.

What is the importance of setting boundaries in the waterproofing strategy?

Setting boundaries ensures both parties understand the rules and limitations of the relationship moving forward. By clearly defining what is expected and what can't be changed, you prevent misunderstandings that could lead to ghosting.

What is the 'lead, don’t chase' approach in follow-ups?

The 'lead, don’t chase' approach means that instead of aggressively following up or constantly checking in, you should stay in control of the conversation by guiding it with clear next steps and maintaining a professional narrative.

How can you use the OFQ framework in follow-ups?

The OFQ framework (Opening, Fact, Question) involves starting the follow-up with a polite opening, followed by a mutually agreed-upon fact, and then asking an easy-to-answer question. This keeps the conversation focused and respectful.

Why should you avoid following up or chasing in professional interactions?

Avoiding follow-ups or chasing is key to maintaining control of the narrative and ensuring that you’re not overly persistent. By staying professional and guiding the conversation, you maintain a positive relationship without appearing desperate or intrusive.