10 Questions to Break the Networking Ice

Many us depend on networking to market our businesses. However, most of us don't want to be considered a pushy salesman when we are in social situations. The best way to break the "networking ice" is to ask questions of those we meet. People like to talk about themselves and their business. It also gets the dialogue going.

The following ten questions can help you get to know the other person and, hopefully, begin a relationship with lots of referrals.

1. How did you get started in your business/profession? Listen when they tell their story. They have to know that you are truly interested.
2. What do you like most about your job?
3. What is unique about your business?
4. What advice would you give to someone starting a business like yours?
5. What business project would you try if you knew you couldn't fail?
6. Has your profession had any significant changes since you began?
7. What do you see as the newest trends in your business?
8. What was the funniest or strangest thing that happened to you in your business?
9. What are your most effective ways of marketing your business?
10. How would you like people to describe how you do business?

Remember you aren't a drill sergeant – you don't have to ask all the questions at once. You want the person to want to get to know and like you. Most business persons are very willing to help those they know and feel they can trust.