Chris Fenning – Author of “The First Minute: How to Start Conversations That Get Results”

The Power of the First Minute: A Conversation with Chris Fenning

Mike interviews Chris Fenning.

Most people fumble in the first few moments of communication. Whether it’s a sales pitch, a business meeting, or just introducing yourself to someone important, the way you start sets the tone for everything that follows. That’s why Chris Fenning’s expertise is a game-changer. His book, The First Minute: How to Start Conversations That Get Results, has actionable strategies that transform how you approach conversations.

Explain why this insight matters and how it can revolutionize your communication game.

SUMMARY

The first minute of any conversation isn’t just an icebreaker. It’s your foundation, your chance to hook someone, establish trust, and set the direction for the conversation. Screw it up, and you’re playing catch-up. Nail it, and you’ve just opened the door to new opportunities.

Most people waste this critical moment by rambling, overloading their listeners with irrelevant details, or failing to grab attention. The First Minute offers a framework to eliminate these pitfalls. Chris outlines how to be clear, confident, and intentional, ensuring you capture attention and make your message resonate.

One of Chris’s most valuable insights is how businesses build trust incrementally. This strategy often starts with a small, low-cost offer, a foot in the door. It isn’t about the sale itself but about creating a relationship.

But here’s the trick: guiding them up the ladder to higher-value products or services is crucial once someone buys into your low-ticket offer. This isn’t manipulation; it’s psychology. People want to feel like they’re making informed decisions. Chris emphasized how creating content—podcasts, social posts, and lead magnets helps nurture that trust. The more touchpoints people have with you, the more they’ll feel like they know and trust you.

The lesson here is simple: credibility isn’t built in a day. It’s a process. Every piece of content you create, every interaction you have, adds another brick to the foundation of trust. When people see you consistently showing up and providing value, they don’t just remember you; they choose you.

Here’s where Chris really dropped some wisdom: People buy from people. It sounds obvious, but too often, businesses lose their human touch.

Chris shared a powerful example: email marketing. He explained that the most successful emails don’t sound like they’ve been drafted by a committee or run through seven layers of corporate approval. Instead, they sound personal, natural, and human.

If you’re writing emails, creating content, or selling anything, remember this: let your personality shine. Share your experiences, struggles, and even a funny moment from your morning. These little touches create a connection. And as Chris pointed out, connection leads to trust, and trust leads to business.

Here’s a truth bomb: If you want to be seen as an authority, you need a book. A book isn’t just a piece of content; it’s a calling card, a credibility booster, and a game-changer for your career.

Chris shared how his books, like Effective Emails and 139 Ways to Make Training Stick, have transformed his business. Writing a book forces you to clarify your message, refine your expertise, and tell your story in a way that resonates with your audience.

It’s not just about the book sales. It’s about what the book represents: your authority, experience, and commitment to helping others.

When asked to recommend a must-read book, Chris didn’t hesitate The Thought Leaders Practice by Matt Church.

This isn’t your typical “how to build a business” book. It’s a blueprint for experts who want to scale their influence without losing their sanity. Chris explained how it’s perfect for those building a brand around their expertise. If you’re in the business of sharing knowledge and want to grow without compromising your values or burning out, this book is a must-read.

Mike Fallat and Chris Fenning talk about the book The First Minute: How to Start Conversations That Get Results.

Chris Fenning delivered pure gold during our conversation. Here are the big takeaways:

  1. Master the first minute. It’s the most critical part of any conversation. Plan it, own it, and make it count.
  2. Build trust step by step. Use smaller offers, meaningful content, and consistent interactions to nurture relationships.
  3. Be authentic. People can tell when you’re faking it. Let your personality shine in everything you do.
  4. Write your book. It’s the ultimate way to solidify your authority and share your story with the world.
  5. Invest in yourself. Books like The Thought Leaders Practice provide roadmaps for scaling your business while staying true to your mission.

Chris Fenning’s insights aren’t just about communication but transformation. If you’re serious about levelling up, grab a copy of The First Minute and start making your conversations count.

Remember this: your story is your power. Master it, share it, and watch what happens next.

Get his book here:

About Mike Fallat

Mike Fallat, aka The BookMan, is the owner of Dreamstarters Publishing and the Million Dollar Book Agency. They have helped 300+ entrepreneurs become bestselling authors. His goal is to help 1,000 entrepreneurs publish books and teach them how to use their books as a gateway to generating 7-figures.

Visit website for more information: https://www.milliondollarbookagency.com/

About Dreamstarters Publishing


Dreamstarters Publishing offers ghostwriting, cover design, and everything that is required to take an idea to a finished book (kindle, paperback, hardcover, and audiobook).


The Million Dollar Book Agency is the ultimate marketing CRM system for author-preneurs. Services include automated funnels, lead generation campaigns, book fulfillment, podcast management, press releases, virtual assistants, course development, and more.

Mike also hosts a podcast known as Million Dollar Stories and runs a membership-based site known as Million Dollar Circle. In addition to owning the book business, he invests in self storage real estate.

https://dreamstarterspublishing.com/

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