Creative Conversation Starters For Authentic Networking
For a long time, the idea of networking felt awkward and unnatural. Talking to people with the mentality and end goal of “can they connect me to a job?” made me feel like I wasn’t really being authentic. I worried recruiters and seasoned professionals would see right through my facade and realize I didn’t know what I was doing.
Networking doesn’t have to be so inauthentic, though. There are creative ways to connect with people that allow you to be yourself while still remaining professional.
First things first, introduce yourself with something like:
“Hi, I’m Caroline, a computer science major.”
Next, and to help you get started, try following up your introduction with one of these creative conversation starters:
For Learning More About a Type of Job, Company, or Industry:
1. What’s something about this job (good or bad) no one told you before starting?
2. Any exciting projects coming up for your company this year?
3. I’ve been wondering about ___(some aspect of a job, company, or industry you’re interested in)___. Can you tell me more about it?
4. I’ve noticed _____ is a bit of a stereotype in the _____ industry. How do you feel about this?
5. Would you say there are certain soft skills that are particularly important for this kind of work?
When You Want To Work With or Learn From Someone Specific:
6. What made you realize this was the work you wanted to do?
7. I can tell you’re really passionate about _____. I’d love to learn more about this type of work and what a typical day looks like.
8. What’s the most helpful career advice you’ve ever been given?
9. Is there anyone you really looked up to when you were first starting out? How have they impacted your career?
10. I really admire everything you do and would love to do something similar in my career. Would you be available to meet up for coffee sometime?
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When You’re Just Exploring What’s Out There:
11. Do you mind telling me a bit about your job and what it’s like?
12. Are there any red or green flags to look out for when job hunting?
13. Is there any advice you have for someone just starting out?
14. I couldn’t help but overhear you talk about _____. Tell me more about it!
15. I’m still exploring different career paths. What drew you to yours and how’d you know it was the right path?
Feel free to switch up your wording to make these conversation starters sound more YOU. In addition, make any necessary adjustments for connecting online vs in-person.
Final Thoughts…
After all this networking is said and done, remember to follow up. Real networking connections aren’t going to stick from just one interaction, but take a little time and maintenance to become something authentic that’ll benefit you in the long run. Always be professional, but don’t be afraid to be yourself in the process.
Related:
To Follow or Connect? Simple Tips To Navigating LinkedIn Networking
4 Simple Ways To Becoming Empowered In Your Networking Journey
LinkedIn Networking: How To Reach Out To Recruiters and People In Your LinkedIn Groups
Meet The Writer!
Hello! My name is Lea Rose and I am an avid writer with a love for all things international. I recently graduated from UNC Charlotte with degrees in Communication Studies as well as Dance Performance and hope to be a full time travel writer one day. My writing primarily focuses on the ways places and experience shape us as individuals. Please feel free to check out my blog or connect with me through LinkedIn or Instagram @writtenworldblog.
