5 Questions to Kick Off a Conversation of Possibility

Connecting with others is one way to open yourself to possibility. Not sure where to begin when you meet new people at in-person conferences, meetings or networking events? Here are some starting points.

Start with a question. Connect with another person by starting with a question. As the person shares their story, listen. This also allows your brain time to warm up before you do name/organization introductions—making you more likely to remember their name (bonus!), especially because you now have a story to connect that name to.

1. What you do within your organization?

2. How did you get into this field? (tip: everyone has a different story here!)

3. What is the most interesting aspect of your work?

4. What keeps you motivated and passionate about your work?

5. What are some things that you are personally hoping to accomplish through your role?

Then introduce yourself. Yes, this is friendly reminder. You’d be surprised at how many people just forget this part. You might not introduce yourself to people you chat with in the airport, coffee line, train, etc. but it’s important to do when you’re networking. It sounds like:

“Hi, I’m _______ from [Agency/Organization].”

Make your way around the room. Set a goal for yourself to meet 3 new people. Next time, make 5 new people your goal. While you mingle, remember to:

* Smile. And if that feels too forced, maintain a smiling mindset to help put yourself at ease about meeting new people.

* Drink water. You might find yourself parched after all this networking.

* Let the other person talk first. Invite the other person to talk; show your openness to learning something new.

* Remember to exchange business cards. Have some business cards (or virtual business cards) available on your person.

* Make notes. It’s okay to write on the back of each person’s business card something memorable or something you want to circle back to them about.

Take a deep breath. You’ve got this. And we’ve got your back. ❤️