How to discuss business topics you are generally clueless about

I found myself last week at the National Relocation Conference once again, the same conference I came to in 2007 just a couple of days after starting at PODS. Back then, I had just been at a technology conference for my previous company, comfortably talking about things like authorized system configurations, corrupted PC registries and operating system migrations.

Suddenly, at the NRC, I was talking about lump sum trends, workforce mobility and COLA/CONUS COLA. I was pretty clueless, and was having many conversations in the booth with long-time industry veterans.

Since then, I have talked about PODS in the context of marketplaces where I didn't have great initial familiarity -- residential real estate, disaster restoration services, military relocation, consumer insurance. The list went on and on.

Early on, I always hoped the other person didn't realize how clueless I was as I tried to get up to speed. Eventually I learned that embracing the cluelessness, not trying to hide it, was the key.

Two years later, things are a lot easier. I know some stuff. But if you find yourself discussing business topics beyond your expertise, apply these simple rules to help you move forward and learn with confidence:

1. Ask a whole bunch of questions

The best way to discuss a business topic you don't understand is to listen more. The best way to listen is to dial in and ask question. Be engaged, learn and invite the other person to share what they know. Jot notes afterward to retain the key things you just heard.

2. Admit you are on a learning curve

Just tell the person you are new to the topic at hand and are doing everything you can to get up to speed quickly. You'll be amazed how many people will do extra to try to help you out. The truth is that sharing knowledge is good for the ego, and people will often be eager to share what they know to help you -- and to help themselves feel good.

3. Don't make stuff up

Do not attempt to fake it. You will probably fail. And then you will lose credibility. As you learn more about a topic, share what you know -- but don't push it. Bluffing is for poker, not for discussions on topics you are trying to better understand.

4. Be enthusiastic

Do not let the fact that you lack knowledge in a certain area drain your confidence. It can be tough to talk with industry vets as you build your own knowledgebase. One way to increase and project confidence is to be enthusiastic. Be excited about the topic and the fact that you are learning about it. You will come across as confident and engaged -- and people will more easily connect with you.

5. Realize you are never an expert

As I have learned, the previous four points apply in all business conversations forever. The more I learn, the less I know. The less I know, the more questions I ask. The more questions I ask, the more I learn. For me, learning creates enthusiam and confidence. It's a great loop that never ends. We are all lucky to be clueless. Embrace it and grow.