Have you found yourself stuck for questions to ask when networking?
Don’t worry you’re not alone. It’s happened to us all at some point!
Fear not! We’ve compiled a list of effective questions to keep to hand to keep things moving.
Not only will these help keep the conversation flowing, they will allow you to find out about the people you’re speaking to. Identify ways in which you can add value. Or even work together.
- What are you looking to achieve from your networking?
- Can you give me examples of the types of clients you work with?
- What’s a recent project you’ve been working on?
- What are you most proud of?
- What problem does your product/service solve?
- Where are you based? Where do you / can you work?
- What’s been a win for you or a customer recently?
- How could I help you and your business?
- Who is the decision maker you are looking to speak to?
- If I could introduce you to one type of business or particular person, who would it be?
- What’s the profile of an ideal client for you?
- Who do you generate referrals from?
- Who do you refer business well to?
- From the delegate list, is there anyone in particular you want to be introduced to today?
- What types of businesses or industries do you like to collaborate with?
- What would be your dream project?
- Who do you like to collaborate with?
- What makes you different from your competitors?
- What’s the biggest challenge your business is currently facing?
- What’s a current topic or piece of news in your industry?
- What are your company’s goals for the next 12 months?
- How do you like to spend your time outside of work?
- Who or what inspires or motivates you?
- What areas of your role or business do you enjoy the most?
- Is there a skill or area you’re looking to learn more about or develop currently?
- How did you get into your line of work?
- WHY do you do what you do?
Note: Do not point-blank ask them when their carpet contract runs out. Or if they want new chairs by the end of the month.
Going to an event with loaded questions to tee-up a sales pitch is glaringly obvious. Trust me!
You want to KNOW more about the other people in the room. Do not not attempt to SELL to EVERYONE. Show genuine interest and curiosity. This will build trust and rapport. Think long-term.
Do you have any other effective questions you would add to the list?