Embrace the Chip and Chat: Credit Card Security Chips Offer an Opportunity to Connect
It seems that the new security chips that are embedded into our credit cards annoy everyone. I know that the chip technology protects us from credit card fraud and provides "that extra protection" we need against counterfeit fraud...but it's annoying!
However, I'm starting to see the value of the identity protection and the few additional seconds it takes to process when making a purchase. That little "chip" is giving us an opportunity to chat and make a connection that's in real time, face-to-face. That's right, the chip is challenging us to mingle more. For the last month, every time I've made a purchase at my local Trader Joes or Target I would ask the teller, "So how do you all like these chips?" and most hate them. Why? Because it creates a new awkward moment of ten seconds that forces us into either A) uncomfortable silence or B) random conversation.
My appeal to you is to take advantage of this awkward moment! You know the moment is coming as you stand in line, so don't make it awkward. Make it real. Make it awesome! Meet someone new. Push yourself. We have an opportunity to ask someone how he or she is doing and actually listen. An opportunity to connect, make someone smile, possibly even change a tellers day from bad to great! If you don't feel comfortable with small talk I totally understand, but isn't it better than looking at your phone for ten seconds or staring off into the distance in silence?
I usually talk about online engagement tactics, social media tips and professional branding, and this is a huge opportunity to make it real. To take it offline and turn a moment of silence into a very simple conversation. Need more guidance to start a random conversation? Follow the questions below and make it happen. If you have a great conversation starter, share it with us!
1. So I think we have about ten seconds, what shall we talk about?
2. You're energetic. Are you just starting your shift or are you excited to close shop for the day?
3. What's your favorite coffee shop around here?
4. Oh, I love that product! Have you used it before? (for the person behind you)
5. I see you have a fitbit, how do you like it?
