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So far, so good. You joined the right organizations and attend the right events. After reading "10 Ways to Appear Wealthy," you dress and act the part. It's time to make conversation. You might think the wealthy tell each other how much money they have or how they are spending it. They don't. What do they talk about? How can you join the conversation?
Unless you rub shoulders with royalty, most successful people in your orbit grew up and live rather normal lives. Many business owners are self-made. The subjects they talk about should come as no surprise.
1. Success at work. They get asked "How's business?" too! They will talk about how their new venture in Asia is doing, a new product's entry into the marketplace of the last quarter's great earnings.
You: "I read about the great earnings you just posted. Congratulations for turning in a good result in a challenging environment."
2. Real estate prices. Doesn't everyone? They think prices have gotten ahead of themselves, while they are secretly thrilled their house increases in value while they sleep.
You: "Pricy Home" magazine just rated us as one of the fastest growing real estate markets in the country. Did you see the article?"
3. Sports. Everyone has a favorite team.
You: "Did you see the game last night? That was a cliffhanger."
4. Restaurants. Many busy people don't cook at home. They eat out. They are interested in new places.
You: "We just tried that new Italian place opposite city hall. It was quite good. Have you been there yet?"
5. Travel. People with money often take great vacations. They like talking about it.
You: "Are you and the family getting away this summer?"
6. Charitable giving. Established wealthy families consider it an obligation to give back to society. They write checks, serve on boards and attend events like the on you are at now.
You: "Besides the museum, what other non-profits are you involved in?"
7. Investments. OK, they might talk about stocks. More likely, they talk about private ventures, like a new restaurant where they are part owner.
You: "Your new restaurant sounds great. We don't have a good regional Italian place around here. How do you find a chef for a specific cuisine like that?"
Bryce Sanders is president of Perceptive Business Solutions Inc. He provides HNW client acquisition training for the financial services industry. His book, "
