Two Ways to Start Up Conversations and Network Better

Walking into a networking event can be an intimidating experience. If you want to feel more at ease so that you can spend time actually networking rather than feigning interest in your drink or pretending to text someone, try some conversation starters designed to let you start a network as well as a discussion. The secret to beginning a networking conversation is to listen to the other person and ask relevant questions.

The temptation in starting a conversation is always to talk about yourself. Do not fall into this trap, as it is apt to make your conversational partner lose interest in the discussion. Instead, plan to do more listening than speaking, focusing your conversational starters on one of two areas: the other person and the event you are attending.

Focus on the Other Person

A solid conversational starter that always works is to ask the other person for advice. As soon as you know what your conversational partner's expertise is, ask him about it. Show genuine interest, and ask follow-up questions that let the other person expand at some length. If he works at a company you are interested in, it is okay in the context of this type of conversation to ask what it takes to work at that company and whether he has advice for someone applying for a job there.

Another excellent approach to starting a conversation is to look for people you have in common with your conversational partner. If you are at a party, ask how he knows the party host, a conversation starter that allows you to learn a little of the other person's history. Paradoxical as it seems, the more you talk about the other person, the more interesting the other person is likely to find you.

Focus on the Event

Any networking event, be it a party or a seminar, allows for automatic conversation starters. Ask someone in charge a couple of questions about the event itself, making sure to ask what you should not miss. Asking people what they like about the event gets a conversation going, as do practical questions about how to navigate a large conference or convention. Again, focus on the person you are speaking to. If you ask her questions about herself, she is bound to switch the conversation around to asking you questions, and you will find yourself networking.

As you wrap up a networking conversation, exchange contact information with anyone you would like to talk to again. Plan a specific means of follow-up if appropriate, offering to email or call in the following days and even planning a meeting or coffee date. Exit a networking conversation gracefully, detaching yourself by saying you are going to refill your drink, look at exhibits or say hello to a few more people. A networking conversation should only last a few minutes, so make your brief time count, then move on to the next opportunity.

Once you are in a conversation with one person, it is easy to start up a discussion with anyone else who joins the group. Simply introduce yourself and use one of your conversation starters to start the process over again and continue to expand your network.

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