Don't know what to talk about at business meetings? These apps will help you find the right topic, and on top of that, no internet novelty will ever slip past you again. Check them out!
Meetings and dinners with clients are a very good way to maintain good relationships with business partners, provided you are witty, informed and simply intelligent. You can't predict which direction a conversation with a client will take, so it's best to know about everything — from who won yesterday's match to the viral video everyone is talking about. Luckily for you, we've prepared the best apps that will let you keep your finger on the pulse.
1. theSkimm
Context instead of dry facts
If you need a helpful tool to understand what's happening in politics and pop culture, Skimm is the best solution. Instead of giving you the latest news, the writers present the context of the news and offer key information at your fingertips that can be a conversation starter. The app also integrates with your calendar.
2. NPR One
Your radio on your smartphone
NPR on the radio enjoys a reputation as one of the best forms of journalism. It makes the current obsession with podcasts and the information you listen to easy to satisfy. The app also pulls content from other providers, which makes it even more addictive.
3. Instaread
Knowledge without reading books
If you're starting to feel guilty because you haven't read the latest non-fiction book everyone is talking about, Instaread is here to help. Thanks to audio and text summaries that give you insight into the book's main points, you'll instantly become an expert on it.
4. BuzzVideo
When the conversation turns to a lighter topic
Viral videos, memes and GIFs can be some of the safer topics to talk about with clients. After all, who can resist a furious cat or a hilarious wedding video? This app lets you customize your feed to focus on what you love.
5. Ted
Want to know what leaders are thinking? The TED app offers 2,000 videos featuring the most inspiring people in the world who are shaping our world. Learn about medical breakthroughs, music and more — become the most interesting person in the group by sharing the latest news you've heard about.
Summary
Apps such as theSkimm, NPR One, Instaread, BuzzVideo and TED are practical tools that help combine current events, knowledge and entertainment, turning the user into an informed business conversationalist. It's worth remembering that their strength lies in their diversity — from serious analysis to light viral content.
Importantly, thanks to features such as calendar integration and personalized feeds, these apps can easily be tailored to individual needs, which increases the chance of using them naturally in everyday client meetings.
