Knowing what to say is a big part of being successful at a networking event. Opening lines are important conversation starters. But that’s just one way to start an interesting conversation with a stranger. Here’s everything that you need to know that leads to a business connection.
Why Conversation Starters are So Important
An effective conversation starter establishes common ground with that other person. This is small talk that can lead to more B2B networking for you. If done right, a conversation can generate genuine interest in what you’ve got to sell.
The right conversation starters are sales techniques.
Tips for Starting a Conversation at Networking Events
But you need to know how to start a conversation at one of these events. Following are 7 things that will lead to a good first impression.
The Right Body Language Leads to a Conversation
Non verbal cues foster an engaging conversation. Research suggests stance is essential. Dont slouch. You’ll look tentative. Body language compliments your conversation.
Proximity is important for good conversations. You need to be close enough to talk but not crowd.
Finding Common Ground
Getting over that first awkward silence is easier with some small talk. Talk shop with the other person to get started in your conversation.
Maintain Eye Contact For Great Conversations
An essential aspect of any engaging conversation is maintaining eye contact, as it demonstrates genuine interest. This serves as a significant physical conversation starter.
Asking Follow-Up Questions
Create meaningful connections by using effective conversation starters. A subsequent conversation should include follow-up questions. Inquire about the other person’s experiences and background to deepen the discussion.
An excellent conversation begins with a mutual interest in each other.
Steering Clear of Conversations on Conversational Topics
Avoid a bad conversation starter. Like these topics that foster social anxiety.
Current events.
Politics
Complaints about work
Generally don’t talk about things you don’t like. Not a good way to jump into a conversation. Don’t jump in with deep topics right away. Leave those peer reviewed studies alone at first.
Ways to Start a Conversation at Face-to-Face Networking Events
It is more effective to concentrate on the best conversation starters. Below are 8 methods on how to start a conversation effectively when you’re in person.
Introduce Yourself
This serves as an excellent conversation starter. One of the simplest ways to engage someone in dialogue is to prepare a brief description. This marks the start of a typical conversation.
Hi, I’m so and so. I’m from Chicago, and my company is ACNE widgets.
Go For A Walk
Deep conversations start when people walk together, especially on the way to the next panel or discussion. This is a great way to get to know the other person.
I’m on my way to the noon panel. Care to join me?
Comment on the decor on the way. It’s another way to start a conversation.
Mention A Favorite Food
You’ll have one thing in common with every other party at an event. The food. It can make for excellent conversation.
Have you tried these sandwiches? They’re delicious.
Start a conversation on your other favorites.
Share a Light Headline
A few tips for using this one. News about a sports team can work. Great conversation starters leave politics out.
Did you read about that game last night?
A positive current event is another great conversation starter.
Compliment the Other Person.
These are great conversation openers. A sincere compliment works when it’s specific.
That coat looks really great on you.
Mention a Detail
A positive remark and/or positive comment about the event works. A new conversational partner might be a stranger. Except for the fact you belong to an entire group. Here’s how to get a conversation going.
That last speaker made some good points. What do you think?
Keep You Right Hand Free
Any conversation needs to include a handshake. Keep your right hand free when landing a new conversation partner.
Hello. It’s nice to meet you
Most people will admit they paid attention to someone starting conversations this way.
Begin With the Weather
Pay attention to what’s going on outside. Real life situations like the weather are a great way to get a conversation started.
This rain is really something, isn’t it?
You can even reference a previous conversation.
I was just talking with someone about how cold it is.
How to Start a Conversation at Online Networking Events
A conversation flow naturally happens when two people are face to face with some help. But more and more people need good conversation starters as well as small talk and business networking tips for Internet meetings. Here are eight ways to start a conversation at an online event. These are digital small talk tips to engage a conversation partner.
Do Some Research
A little research will help you start a conversation. Get a list of attendees to the virtual event before hand. Below is one of the best conversation starters.
“Hello—. I read your profile before the event and wondered if we could have a conversation. You did a great job on your recent project.
Flattery leads to a conversation.
Make Sure To Engage
Online events often feature discussions and quizzes. To learn how to start a conversation, consider asking open-ended questions such as:
“What do others think of that last speaker? I’m interested to know.”
Starting a conversation can also center around what attendees enjoy doing in their free time. It’s important to avoid controversial topics, so encourage the other person to share their hobbies instead.
What is everyone’s favorite TV show?
Ask A Day to Day Life Question
There’s room for talking and conversation with a person before a meeting starts. Ask a question to get a conversation started around personal information.
What family members do you respect the most?
A person’s family is a good conversation starter that works. Most people like to talk about the person closest to them.
Ask About Social Events
A decent conversation can start around a favorite movie. Or get attendees talking about music.
What’s the best concert you’ve ever been to?
The arts are excellent conversation starters, especially if a person has a business that focuses in that area.
Ask Them To Describe Their Mood.
Exploring their expert knowledge will come later in the event. To break the ice, ask new friends about their mood. A conversation starter could involve discussing their social life or sharing their own writing about how they feel on a Zoom whiteboard. While this may not constitute a full conversation, it serves as an effective icebreaker.
“Who is in a good mood today? Take a deep breath and describe it.”
This conversation works wonders. It gets the other person to talk about themselves.
Register on the Community Board
Find a new conversational partner to talk with before the event starts. A community board can lead to a personal text conversation. People also love “talking” through messaging on the boards too.
“I’m looking for some more tips on how to get the most from this event. Contact me at ….”
Post on Your Website Pre-Event
Put a notice up that you’ve registered for the event and are looking for a conversation partner. Look for someone to talk to on Twitter , LinkedIn and Facebook too.
Take Advantage of Real-Time Messaging
Use real-time messaging as topics are presented to get more details from another person. This way of starting a conversation builds trust. You show the other person you value their opinions. Mutual respect is a great conversation starter.
Use these Conversation Starters to Have a Great Networking Event
Now you have an overview on how to start a conversation. Talking with another person at an online or brick and mortar event can make a difference. Maybe you’re looking for a new job. Or have a person talk about their needs so you can make a sale.
Either way a conversation helps to further your goals. The more people at events talk, the more the conversations benefit your business. And if you have a hard time doing so, look into ways to help you, such as networking for introverts.
Image: Depositphotos
This article, “How to Start a Conversation When Networking” was first published on Small Business Trends