Business Conversation Openers

Natural, non-threatening questions to start technology management conversations and build rapport

For Apple Business Team Internal Use Only
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General Business Ice Breakers

  • How many people in your office are dealing with technology issues on a regular basis?
  • What's your biggest technology headache right now?
  • Who handles IT support when something goes wrong with your computers?
  • What happens when your email or internet goes down for a few hours?

Industry-Specific Conversation Starters

  • Professional Services: Do you ever lose billable hours because of computer problems or downtime?
  • Healthcare: How critical is it that your systems stay running for patient care?
  • Legal: How do you ensure your client data stays secure and compliant?
  • Financial: What happens to your client work when your systems are down?
  • Manufacturing: Do technology issues ever impact your production schedules?

Growth & Future Planning Openers

  • Are you planning to hire more people or open new locations?
  • How easy would it be to set up technology for a new employee?
  • Do you ever feel like your current tech setup is holding your business back?
  • What would happen if your business doubled in size - would your technology be ready?

Context-Specific Applications

  • During Mac Consultation: Since you're already looking at upgrading your computers, have you thought about how you'll manage and maintain them once they're deployed?
  • During Repair Discussion: Rather than just fixing problems as they happen, would you be interested in preventing them altogether?
  • During Business Solution Presentation: These Apple business solutions work best when they're properly managed and maintained.

Natural Transition Phrases

  • It sounds like you might benefit from having a dedicated IT partner...
  • Many businesses your size find it more cost-effective to outsource their IT management...
  • Have you ever considered having someone monitor your systems 24/7 to prevent problems?
  • What if you never had to worry about IT issues again and could focus 100% on growing your business?

When to Use Business Conversation Openers

Best For:
  • First meeting or initial contact
  • Building rapport and trust
  • Customer seems hesitant about MSP technology discussions
  • Transitioning from Apple product discussion to broader IT needs
Key Principles:
  • Focus on business impact, not technical features
  • Use their own words when reflecting back problems
  • Position as consultative partner, not salesperson