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Do you hate walking into a room full of tens or hundreds of people at a business or networking event, not knowing a single soul and not knowing what to say. Yep, we’ve all been there. Networking and business events can be tough and draining on your social battery. It can be difficult to come up with good conversation starters at networking events but after countless networking events, we’ve collated our top conversation starters.
This article covers the best conversation starters when attending a business or networking event.
Pay them a compliment
We love style, and complimenting someone's outfit when attending a networking event can be an easy way to start a conversation. Noticing someone’s outfit and paying them a compliment can build a quick rapport. Most people will have considered what they wear to the networking event to ensure they make the right first impression, complimenting them on their choice or an item of clothing is a good way to start the conversation!
Ask them about something interesting they have been working on recently
Sometimes when you’re talking to someone about their job you need to understand what they actually do day to day in order to build a relationship, and ultimately refer them to clients (and vice versa). Work conversations can be boring but it is an important aspect of getting to know someone at a networking event. Ask about a recent case study, what sector they are most focused on or whether they have a particular niche. Maybe you have a connection already you can put them in touch with.
How did they get into their career?
People love telling stories about themselves, asking a person about their background and how they ended up in their particular sector can lead to further conversation. A good conversation started could be asking someone what their first steps were when entering their career or what their career journey has entailed. Remember, you are there to learn about others and their business when attending networking events.
Ask them about their hobbies and interests
Networking events should be about building relationships. If you focus solely on work and what a person does for a living, this can be repetitive and dull. Maybe you both have a dog of the same breed, or you both enjoy the same local restaurants. Find some common ground and run with it when making good conversation.
Ask for recommendations
If you can find out what that person enjoys, having discussed their interests and passions then ask for recommendations. People love helping others and feeling like they are adding value. It’s also a great way to stay in touch after the networking event. Perhaps that person has some restaurant, shopping or travel recommendations they can send to you after the networking event.
Femfluence’s events are all about building lasting business relationships and friendships. Female business leaders, when attending business or networking events, are all there for the same reason. Above all, it’s important to remember that the person you’re talking to will most likely be as nervous as you are. When attending business events, pick one of our best conversation starters and you are sure to come away from the event having made a good connection.
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