13 “Sure Fire” Questions for Networking
There’s no doubt about it – a room full of strangers can be intimidating if you’re not prepared.
Networking events should never include uncomfortable silences – or leave you grasping for something to say.
Don’t make shop talk a crutch!
Arm yourself with these 13 “sure fire” networking questions– and start building up your client base and your social repertoire.
- What is the biggest challenge facing you in your practice/business?
- How is the economy affecting your practice/business?
- What separates you and your company/firm from the competition?
- How did you get started in the business/practice?
- What do you see as the coming trends in your business/practice?
- What ways have you found to be the most effective for promoting your business/building your practice?
- What's the funniest incident you've experienced in your business/practice?
- What do you enjoy most about your profession?
- What advice would you give someone just starting in the field?
- What is one thing would you do with your business (or in your practice) if you knew you could not fail?
- What significant changes have you seen take place in your profession through the years?
- What one sentence would you like people to use in describing the way you do business/practice law?
- How can I know if someone I'm speaking to is a good client/referral source for you?
The last question is delicate, but key to understanding a person’s profession or practice. It should not be asked too early in a conversation, rather after you have established a good rapport and asked the other open-ended questions listed above.
Remember - smart questions lead to smart conversations and relationships. Don’t let networking be a waste of time. Use it to your advantage.
Understand and master the power of questioning and make networking work for you –and your firm.
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