10 Conversation Starters for Great Networking

A good networker takes the time to hold a conversation with the people she meets, instead of making a mad rush to collect, and hand out, as many business cards as possible.

Some good questions to get the conversation started:

• Who is a good referral for you?
• Describe your dream customer/client.
• If I meet your dream customer tomorrow, what would you like me to say about you?
• Who would be a good resource for you?
• Where do you typically find your best clients/customers?
• How or why did you start this business?
• What do you love about your business?
• What part of your business are you most passionate about?
• What changes are happening, or do you predict will happen, in your industry?
• What do you love to do when you’re not working?

These questions show that you care about making quality connections with the people you meet. After the event, send an email, or a personal card, telling that person how much you enjoyed meeting them. Include something you talked about, to help them remember who you are, just in case your name doesn’t ring a bell. Then close by asking “How can I help you?” Often, you’ll find that they will want to help you in return. The end result? You made a great impression, and possible friend, which will take you much farther than had you focused on your sales pitch.