Business networking events are a great place to connect with professionals within any niche market. They offer career-minded professionals a great avenue to meet new people and broaden their professional connections and set the stage for new career opportunities.
Most professions offer some form of professional associations or networks that bring together like-minded people; But the idea of ​​prospecting and starting meaningful conversations with strangers at these events can scare some people. By using these basic tips, starting a conversation will be easy.
First impressions count!!!
You should always remember that the first impression you make when meeting a new person affects how you will be perceived in the future. The first few minutes of a conversation will affect your relationship with them in the future; so always be confident, make eye contact, smile, speak in a loud and clear voice and be confident in your skills and qualifications. A pleasant and confident introduction will always open the door to an effective and rewarding conversation.
Questions, questions, questions…
Asking people intelligent and probing questions will allow you to start a conversation by learning about others. By showing interest in others, you will open a line of communication that sincerely shows your interest in getting to know someone or their business. Questions that are thoughtful, that pique an individual’s interest, are best. Ask open-ended questions that stimulate conversation; Like, how long have you been in your current role with the company? How are your products? How is your business? Who else from your organization is at the event? are all good questions that allow a conversation to grow.
Business, business, business!! Talk about something else…
Professional networking events are always about business. People talk about business all day, but they have other interests and aspects of their lives. Open conversations to other interests; festive events, families, sporting events, etc. they allow people to relax and have more rewarding conversations that are memorable.
Studies have shown that people who can relate on a more personal level are more likely to work together than those who revolve strictly around business interests.
Controversy!!! Avoid at all costs…
When we say that first impressions count; meeting people for the first time and raising or discussing controversial issues will always lead to failure. Always try to keep your conversations light and avoid topics that are controversial. As a general rule of thumb, politics, race, religion, and sex are good topics to avoid until you have a deeper, longer-lasting relationship with someone.
Find common interests..
The best way to strike up a conversation with someone is to have a common interest. It generates respect and a personal level of relationship with someone almost instantly. This can be working in the same industry, company or just having the same hobby, etc. Learning about people’s interests will allow you to strike up a conversation quickly.
Breaking the ice and having meaningful conversations takes some practice and may not go as planned right away, but continuing to chat and meet new people will effectively develop your conversational skills and broaden your career prospects as you grow as an individual.