I remember a line in the 1989 movie Batman with Michael Keaton. Before the Joker kills his victim, he asks, “Have you ever danced with the devil in the pale moonlight? I ask that of all my prey. I just like the sound of it.”
When I’m networking, a question I ask of all my “prey” is, “Are you streaming anything interesting?” It’s always a fun conversation that tells me a lot about the person I’m meeting. Especially if I’m watching something that’s particularly excellent.
Asking a great question like this (which could be an opener) might be an effective icebreaker and a nice way of making networking easier and fun for those you’re meeting. Remember, this networking stuff doesn’t come easily to most. As a great networker, it’s our job to make meeting us easy!
Here’s what you might say in a business networking setting whether you’re in sales, job search, research mode, or socializing at a company event.
“OK, random question! What is your favorite streaming show of all time?”
Here are some of my favorites in order (I think)!
Six Feet Under
Boardwalk Empire
Breaking Bad
The Sopranos
Game of Thrones
Kingdom
Lights Out
Ozark
Sons of Anarchy
Squid Game
Of course, if you’re not a fan of streaming shows, lead with something you do like – movies, books, sports, hobbies, bourbon, quilting, or whatever.
My approach to networking has always been to learn, have fun, and make friends. Why make it so difficult? The business stuff is more likely to happen after that!
That is, if, (and this is one big if!) you’re clear about your product, focused on your market, and therefore going to the right places, saying the right things, and meeting the right people.
OK, random question!
🥊 WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE STREAMING SHOW (OR WHATEVER)?
