Sometimes starting the conversation off, especially if it is over the phone, can be very difficult and nerve-racking. One thing to keep in mind is that you do not want to sound like a pitchy salesman, you want to sound natural, like you are talking to a friend. Start off you conversation like you would a friend by saying "Hi Tom!" while shaking his hand if you are face to face. The last thing you want to do is say "Hello Mr Jones." You want to start off on a level playing field, and being conversational is the best way to do that.
