4 questions to cut awkward silences when networking

Networking can be either the most fulfilling or most terrifying part of an event. Regardless of how you find it, there’s no disputing how rewarding it can be. A great networking session could land you your next professional partnership or perhaps even an injection of fresh funds from an investor. If you aren’t networking yet, you should get on it soon – or you’ll be missing out on a whole lot of potential opportunities.
Initiating a conversation can be as easy as extending your hand out for a handshake. But beyond that, it takes a bit more legwork than “hi, hello, how’s the weather.” Here are a few questions you can use at your next event to keep the conversation going and prevent any awkward silences:

1. What did you think of the talk?

This question is an automatic conversation starter right off the bat. It works especially well if you don’t know who the person is and what he or she does beforehand. At that point, all you have in common is attendance at the same event. Asking about how the talk was for him or her opens the conversation up to topics that you share similarities with already.

2. How is your startup/industry doing?

There is a chance that you might find yourself face-to-face with an entrepreneur from an entirely different industry. Take this as an opportunity to learn more about their industry as a whole, how they got into it, and how they foresee it in the future. Just as how you’re not familiar with his or her industry, your conversation partner may not be privy to yours as well. This could be a great learning experience for both of you.

If you chance upon someone who works in the same industry, ask about their careers—how their work is like, how they succeeded, if they can share any marketing insights or tips. Who knows? You might even pick up a thing or two from your conversation.

3. What do you like outside of work?

Networking doesn’t have to be all business. Sometimes, a little light-hearted chat can keep the conversation flowing. Casual topics like book recommendations, favourite sports team, and general life advice generates a lot of rapport with a person. It establishes familiarity you can bank on for heavier topics you wish to discuss.

4. Can we keep in contact after the event?

There will be situations where you hit it off with someone or made a useful contact, but it’s time for you to move on and network with other people. In these times, this question is a great way for you to wrap up the conversation neatly. Make sure to exchange your contact information or business cards with each other and plan a future meeting. You wouldn’t want to lose your new contact, would you?

Network at one great event

The wonder of networking is forming connections that weren’t previously possible. Whether you’re just there to mingle with like-minded startup founders or forge new business partnerships, networking is an invaluable skill you need in your professional career.

If you’re interested in building contacts with amazing entrepreneurs, founders, and investors, you’ll want to check out Tech in Asia Jakarta 2017 because over 6,000 of them will be in attendance! From November 1 to 2, you can meet engaging personalities from the tech community, rub elbows with the head honchos of the tech industry, and pitch to willing investors!

Tickets are now going at 25 percent off. You can use the code tiajkt25 at checkout to save 25 percent on your purchase. But better hurry, this offer only lasts until tomorrow, August 11, 23:59 (GMT +7). Get yours below now!



Sumber: Techinasia