Depending on the career you choose you may or may not have to interact with potential clients or patrons at one houses or other "meet and greet" events. Even if you don't think your job will require you to do that it's still a valuable skill to know how to interact.
The first friday of every month is First Friday Art Walk in which many downtown galleries and businesses stay open late for people to get a chance to visit them. The gallery I intern for participates in these First Fridays so it is important for my job that I learn to talk with our patrons.
Having conversations with complete strangers about works of art that the artist may not even understand fully sounds easy, right? Not at first but once you practice it is just like chatting with a friend or classmate.
Here are my tips for how to interact with patrons or clients:
1. Assume the stance
One thing I have noticed every person I work with do is pose themselves in an inviting way. The way we communicate is much more than just our words. It's also our body language and the "vibe" we give off. When you are simply standing there or walking around keep your arms relaxed at your sides or clasp them being your back. Folding arms looks like your either bored or unfriendly.
2. Judge the people (in a good way)
Are they in a conversation with others? Did they make eye contact with you or acknowledge you? Don't interrupt someone or approach someone that look like they are perfectly fine on their own. If they look open to conversation initiate something but let them push the conversation on.
3. Be polite
Always greet people on their way in and out. Even if they don't want to talk with you, the fact that you we're courteous to them will mean a lot.
For more tips on interacting with customers check out this great article here!
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