𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗥𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗦!

One of the best ways to start a dialogue with someone at a networking event, cocktail party, or business meeting is to ask an interesting question or statement.

Closed-Ended vs. Open-Ended Questions

You could open with a closed-ended question like, “Are you a member of this networking group?”

Then you would have to ask another question. “How long have you been a member?”

This could feel like a lot of work until you begin asking open-ended questions like, “How did you learn about the group?”

Ask About Things People Enjoy

I always think it’s fun to ask questions about current events, movies, streaming shows, books, technology, or anything positive that seems to be trending. This usually gets an interesting conversation going while I’m learning about them and maybe walking away with a great movie recommendation.

10 of My Favorite Conversation Starters

Anyway, here are 10 of my favorite openers!

• “Very nice to meet you!”
• “May I share a quick story about…”
• “What did you think about the World Cup?”
• “What brought you to this event?”
• “What is your approach to networking?”
• “How do you start conversations at networking events?”
• “This is my first time here. What should I expect?”
• “What did you do over the weekend?”
• “Do you want to dance?”
• “You’re back! Good to see you again. How did the…go?”
• “I just saw Styx play at the Mid Florida Amphitheater and they were amazing!”

Notice the Common Theme

Notice a trend or common theme? None of these openers will prompt a work-related conversation. (Unless, of course, they do.)

It’s strictly personal.

Be Ready to Answer Your Own Question

Be prepared to answer your own question. “How about yourself?” (I often ask questions that I would want someone to ask me.)

Don’t Ask Everyone the Same Question

Also, you probably don’t want to keep asking the same question to each person that you meet. Unless others are joining the conversation and you want to loop them in.

If I’ve had success with a certain question, I have said, “I’ve been asking this question with everyone that I’ve met tonight so let me bounce this off of you!”

Now, you have them curious and they become part of the action.

Make People Feel Comfortable

Your purpose is getting a fun conversation going while learning about everyone you meet. And putting you, and them, at ease!

When to Transition to Business

Of course, when the time feels right, certainly you can transition to more work-related questions. “What are you focused on right now at work?”

Connection Comes Before Conversation About Work

I have had entire conversations with people I’ve met at networking events, conferences, and other business meetings where we barely talk about work. We’re so caught up in the fun stuff that work conversations don’t feel as important. Once we establish at the end of our time together what we do professionally, there may certainly be a reason to follow up and continue the dialogue.

It’s Always About the Connection

The connection is made. It’s always about the connection. Imagine the impression you’ll leave? Most will think of you as being easy to talk to, a great listener, and interesting!

Not necessarily a bad thing.

Why These Conversation Starters Work

For me, the openers above have resulted in more prospects, more referrals, more business, more friends, and more fun. Certainly, feel free to steal my line.

What Is Your Favorite Conversation Starter?