Tom Krieglstein explains how Kevin discovered that "what's going on?" works as a trigger to engage disengaged people. The phrase signals a casual, low-pressure opening, like petting a stray cat: move too fast and they retreat. Getting someone's attention when they've checked out is a huge win.
Chapters
Did you notice when new people came over the corner, they would always say this phrase. They'd say, what's going on? But they didn't say it normally like that. They said it like this. What's going on? What's going on? Kevin had unknowingly stumbled upon the golden nugget of engagement. That phrase, what's going on? Wasn't just curiosity, but it was actually the bridge from disengagement to engagement. The beauty of this magic phrase lies in its simplicity. It's not just a commitment, but it's like an RSVP where they open the door to. To you, building the connection with them. So when you hear the phrase, that's your cue to roll out the red carpet of engagement. But keep it casual. Remember, if you come on too strong, you're just gonna scare them back into their realm of ones and neutrals. No, thank you. It's like trying to pet a stray cat. Move slowly or you'll end up just talking to yourself. Here, kitty, kitty, kitty. Here.