Many members of my career mentoring site tell me that while they know they should continually build their networks, they feel uncomfortable at networking events. They just don’t know how to engage strangers in conversation. The article below gives you three great tips on how to become the most memorable person at any networking event.
I like all three pieces of advice:
- Reveal something about yourself.
- Ask open ended questions.
- Turn the conversation to current events.
I particularly like the advice on asking open ended questions.
I encourage members of my career site to adopt the 2/3 — 1/3 rule. Speak 1/3 of the time, listen 2/3 of the time. Asking open ended questions is the easiest way to put this rule into play. As you know, open ended questions are questions that can’t be answered by a simple yes or no. In networking situations, they encourage the other person to tell you more about himself or herself.
Once you ask and open ended question, you need to listen attentively. Pay attention to what the other person is saying and respond in a manner that shows you’ve been listening.
As the article points out, current events are a great source of open ended questions. It’s August. Here in Denver at this time of year, it’s easy to get people speaking by asking an open ended question about the Broncos and their chances in the upcoming NFL season.
If you don’t want to go to sports, find something on the news. Right now, there is something called the Corpse Flower in bloom at the Denver Botanic Gardens. This flower is huge — over six feet. It blooms very seldom — sometimes only once in 10 years. It is called the Corpse Flower because it has an odor that is similar to that of decaying flesh. People have been standing in line for over four hours to see (and smell) this flower. I have no interest in it, but it would make a great conversation starter at a networking event here in Denver.
You get the picture. Ask open ended questions about something in the news (I suggest staying away from politics) to get the conversation started. Respond by showing the other person that you’ve been listening.
Trust me, this works. Master this technique and you’ll become the most memorable person at every networking event you attend.
Your career mentor,
Bud
PS: I write this blog to help people create the life and career success they want and deserve. Now I’m going one step further. I’ve created a membership site in which I’ve pulled together my best thoughts on success. And, as a reader of this blog, you can become a member for free. Just go to https://budbilanich.com/join to claim your free membership. You’ll be joining a vibrant and growing community of success minded professionals. I hope to see you there.
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