3 Questions to Use While Networking

I was in several networking meetings this week and the same questions kept resurfacing. Have you ever thought about the series of questions you ask while networking as a system? It got me thinking about the effectiveness of these questions and how they can be refined to build more meaningful connections.

Networking is not just about exchanging business cards; it’s about creating a system of questions that can lead to valuable relationships and opportunities. Here are three questions to consider adding into your rotation during networking conversations:

1. Who is a good introduction for you? This question opens up a dialogue about your contact's ideal connections. It helps you understand who they are looking to meet, which can range from potential clients to industry leaders. By knowing this, you can make valuable introductions that can strengthen your relationship with both parties.

2. What’s the best way to refer you to others? How do you like to be introduced? Everyone has their preferred way of being introduced. Some might prefer a direct email, while others might appreciate a more personal introduction over coffee. Asking this question shows that you respect their preferences and are committed to making introductions that are beneficial for them.

3. Who do you know that I should know? This question flips the script and invites your contact to think about who they can introduce you to. It’s a reciprocal approach that acknowledges the give-and-take nature of networking. This can lead to unexpected and valuable connections that you might not have considered.

By incorporating these questions into your networking strategy, you can create a more structured and effective approach to building your professional network. Remember, the goal of networking is to create lasting, mutually beneficial relationships. So, the next time you find yourself in a networking meeting, try using these questions and see how they can enhance your conversations.