Thread by @Jarushub

How to Open a Networking Conversation

You're at a conference, or other events and you want to network, here are a few tips, lines to use. Prepared by Ariella Coombs of Careerealism with some adaptation by me to fit Naija environment

One of the hardest things about networking events is just getting a conversation going with someone – without being awkward about it.

Approaching someone are not always be easy.

So, what are some natural and easy ways to break the ice?

Here are some tips:

1. Go Fishing At The Food Table

While waiting in line for the food, start chatting up the person next to you. This is a great opportunity to get a convo started because you already have something in common: the food. Everyone is thinking the same thing, What am I going to try?

So, instead of just standing there in silence, start a conversation.

Here are a few conversation starters for this situation:
•“Oh man, everything looks so good… I’m not sure what to get! What are you thinking?”
•“oh, they have ___! Have you ever tried it?”

•“Hmm, I’m not quite sure what that dish is… do you know?”

Who knows, you might leave the buffet with a better plate of food AND a new contact!

That’s a win-win

2. Find A Loner

If you see someone standing alone in the corner, clutching his or her drink, and looking miserable, don’t be afraid to walk up and introduce yourself.  Typically, these people need a little help getting the conversation going.

Here are some ice breakers:

•“Man, these networking events (or conference!) can be so crazy. Mind if I join you over here where it’s a little quieter?”
 
•“Wow, there are a ton of people here! The food must be good, huh?”

If someone is standing alone, he or she is probably feeling uncomfortable or unconfident. If you initiate the conversation, it could make them feel more relaxed and willing to connect.

3. Compliment Them

Everyone loves compliments, especially when they are feeling insecure (and many people do feel that way when attending networking events). If you’re struggling to start a conversation with someone, find something to compliment.

Here are some ideas:

•“Yum, that drink looks good. What is it?”
 
•“Cute shoes! Where did you get them?”

4. Talk About Sports

People love talking about sports. If you’re a sports person, use it to your advantage!

See someone wearing a Arsenal wristband ? Say something like, “Gunner, correct? Did you catch the game yesterday?”

Overhear a group of people talking about last night’s game? Express your interest in the conversation by saying something like, “Are you talking about ……?”, then chime in.

5. Just Say Hello

Sometimes, the easiest way to meet someone is to offer a handshake and say, “Hi, I’m Suraj.”  Simply introducing yourself with a smile and a dash of confidence can work wonders.

These are conversation openers, in another thread, we will talk about how to keep the conversations going and in a final thread, exit strategy

Which is your favorite from the above starting ideas? Which would you or do you use most often?

Mine are table fishing & sports convo