What informal or more personable techniques do you employ to connect with your clients while on the job?

"Well, just about everyone is an animal person. So, I typically will ask if someone is a dog or a cat person. This can give me some perspective on their personality. I have cats and dogs, so I am universal in that regard and can connect with just about anyone."

"You want to build relationships. There has to be an exchange for people to trust you with who you are. I have sharp attention to detail, so when I start with a client, I ask to meet them at the offices where I'll be working to do a walkthrough during their off hours. If they feel okay with it, I'll briefly gaze over everyone's workstations and observe. You might notice a photo of one person fishing or an employee's kids in little league. I'll try to find any interest point I can connect with them on. Whenever that is lacking, I'll try to offer something relatable or interesting about myself. Keep it professional, but be personable as well. If I'm lucky, we'll be golfing or jogging together in a few weeks."