Business networking Conversation Starters

Conversation is the key to business networking, and it starts by showing an interest in the other person. Here are some of my favourite conversation starters and follow on questions...

• What business are you in?
• How did you get into that business?
  
• What do you enjoy most about it?
• What kind of people do you like to do business with?
• I bet you have some stories to tell? Only ask if person is in an industry where this is likely to be true

These questions allow the other person to talk about themselves. At some point, s/he is likely to ask you what you do. This is your chance to shine. Consider the difference between these 2 answers...

1. I'm an online lead generation expert. I find ways to turn casual visitors into serious business enquiries
2. I get you the people who are ready to say yes

The first is a technically accurate, and encapsulates what I do. It's a more complete description.

The second doesn't fully explain what I do, but packs far more emotional punch. It provides an obvious follow-on question that most people will ask. It is more engaging, and generates more interest in my service.

I strongly recommend you develop a similar one-sentence pitch that speaks directly to the outcome your service delivers, rather than providing a technical description.