Questions to Ask at a Networking Event
When you meet someone new at a specific event, there are probably several things you would like to know right away. You probably already know what to look for, and this determines what sorts of questions you may need to ask. Whether it’s about their career or personality traits, you have to be delicate and mindful. Luckily, we have a few suggestions for what you can ask.
Potential employee
When interviewing a potential employee, with or without their knowledge, you have to focus on their education and experience. Where did you go to school? is always a valid question, that can be brought up at nearly any point. Although it doesn’t always mean much, since education is often overlooked in favor of actual work experience.
A more valid question Have you done anything I have seen/heard of? could be asked right after a person brings up their profession. This can allow you to find out exactly how good the person is, and what are their successful projects.
There is always room to ask about favorite parts of the job, and whether or not a person wishes to change something in their current work. If you are preparing to make an offer, it would be nice to know what you can provide that the other company can’t.
Potential employer
It’s a very different conversation if you are seeking employment. While carefully asking someone about their work, you have to mention how you could be of help. So ask the questions that would allow you to bring up your own best sides. How did you start out in this industry? Is a positive way to let the person talk about themselves, and afterward you can mention that the same thing has been a lifelong passion of yours.
You would immediately notice if this sparks interest in your conversation partner, and if not, you may ask whether there is someone else at the same event that they’d recommend you to meet.
It’s always good to bring up some other field related questions, like the current situation, possible prospects, etc. You have to express interest and show your expertise at the same time.
Potential partner
With your possible business partners, you stand on equal ground. This is why most of the topics will basically be an exchange of opinions and evaluations. You can easily ask about the field, their leadership style, their work environment.
One of the most effective questions is How involved in the process are you? It will give you a glimpse of what it’s like to have this person for a boss, which helps you determine whether it’s something you can accept.
How do you define success in the field? is a more open question, that might show you how goal-oriented the person is, and what is their vision of a well-developed venture.
Knowing this provides you with some useful information that can be crucial in choosing the right partner.
Random people
At any gathering, you might meet not only potential business interests but many random people, who still might be of help. With those, you can keep conversation relaxed and free-flowing. Still, you should ask about their job, projects, and experience, since you never truly know what could prove to be useful in your business. There are universally demanded professions like designers, SMM managers, or advertising specialists.
What are you working on currently? Is a good conversation starter for these people. You can learn whether a person is available for hire, what they do, and even how they treat their current work.
If you want to practice or meet professionals in different fields, you can always rely on Connect.Club app to organize an event and match you with someone new based on your interests.
You never know who you might meet.
