that raises the energy of the group, and provides an entertaining element
to the interaction.
Entering a group and lowering the energy level isn’t generally a good
thing. You’re taking value in the form of energy. We don’t want to take
energy; we want to give it or at least keep the energy level the same.
So you get an idea of what I’m talking about: Imagine you’re in a bar
with friends. You’re joking and laughing having a great time and
someone approaches you and your friends. He’s a little down, and so
suddenly the fun you and your friends were having starts to slip away.
That’s going to make you feel uncomfortable with that guy, right? You
probably wouldn’t want him around for long.
Now a different story: You and you’re friends are hanging out
having a good time. Someone approaches. He walks up and tells a
fascinating story – something that gets everyone excited to hear more.
Chances are you’re not uncomfortable around this guy, and would want
him to stick around. He’s adding value to the group.
These routines, when performed correctly, should add value to the
group by raising the energy level and keeping the group intrigued.
Hook PointThe moment the group is comfortable with you enough to carry on a
conversation, you’ve reached "hook point". All value-generating routines
will start after you’ve reached this hook point. In other words, routines
are used after you’ve started a conversation. They’re not intended to start
conversations themselves, although it’s not uncommon that someone
who sees or hears you doing a routine will butt in and join the fun.
Selecting a Routine