Many people understand the importance of networking. Maybe you’ve previously used your network of contacts to get the job you want, find new clients, or even change careers altogether. Despite the many positive attributes of these networks, most are still wary of using the method presented.
Often, many people are afraid to use networking opportunities because they do not know what it takes to make an acquaintance with a helpful person. In particular, approaching a stranger with whom you have not previously had any dealings can instill fear and uncertainty – what can you talk to them about at all?
But that doesn’t mean you should give up on the idea. Our experts have talked to some real experts and compiled some interesting questions to ask during a conversation. You can use them to strike up a conversation with a person quickly and easily.
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According to business development expert Michelle Tillis Lederman, this is one of the easiest and simplest questions you can use to start a conversation. It demonstrates your interest in the person you’re talking to, not just that you want to understand how they can help you. Based on your answer, you will precisely understand what the other person is working on and what his idea is. That way, you can keep the conversation going. In addition, the person will likely ask you a follow-up question so that you can share what you’re doing now and talk about your goals.
Once you have information about your interlocutor’s professional experience, you can ask them how their career started. It will increase his loyalty and allow you to draw the correct conclusions.
According to experts, if you learn from your conversation with your partner about their path which led to the current position, you will have a better idea of what to expect in the future and what they might need in their field of work, in a particular position or at a specific company. It is worth demonstrating interest and enthusiasm to be memorable and make a lasting impression. It will be of great benefit if you intend to approach this person again in the future.
Asking a question about a particular, timely event in the professional field (a merger, breaking news, a bill, etc.) can demonstrate your excellent awareness and thoughtfulness to your interlocutor. This technique is sure to make you memorable.
No matter how you look at it, first impressions are pretty important. During a conversation, it’s not enough to demonstrate that you’re a good person. You must also show how you reason professionally and what you know about the current market. This way, you can steer the conversation in the right direction and convey that you understand what you are talking about and that you are following world events.
The main goal of networking is often to get the new job you want. But not everyone is willing to go out and ask the first person in the right field to get the job they want. It is often quite unpleasant. But this does not mean that you should give up the idea. It’s worth achieving the desired result differently, acting more delicately and intelligently.
With such a question, you can subtly scout for opportunities head-on without asking, “How can I get your job?”. If luck favors you, they will ask you, “Are you interested in working in this field?” and give you their business card so you can contact them in the future. Even if the professional can’t help you directly, they can still give you helpful information.
It is a great question to ask while talking to someone older than you. That way, he can share with you the valuable knowledge and helpful experience he’s gained over the years. It’s also a bit flattering.
People are much more willing to share their wisdom than to give away valuable contacts. However, they are both precious and helpful. It honors and demonstrates that you are eager to grow in the future by seeking to learn something from the other person. It is also a way to show respect, to dispose of the person to you, and to make a deeper connection.
In simple terms, networking is a way for people to connect, so don’t ignore the opportunity to create a simple, lighthearted conversation. Similar questions at this point allow people to open up better and understand that you are not expecting a strictly professional and dry interaction.
With questions like these, you can reduce the level of officiousness. They also allow the interviewee to talk about what he is passionate about and discuss hobbies. Also, asking about their time away from work demonstrates that you’re interested in the person you’re talking to as a person, not just as a professional who can be helpful to you. Maybe you’ll get closer based on shared interests? Who knows?
With this question, you can protect yourself from many common mistakes common to novice networkers. The biggest mistake is giving out hundreds of business cards of your own but not collecting any from others. The only way to contact a new person is to get their contacts.
That said, please note that you should not ask the question, “Can you give me your business card?” Asking to stay in touch or to sign up with someone demonstrates that you are not just considering your contact as a regular contact but that you are interested in them as a person
