Once “Hello” is covered, next up in the Authentic Networking System is to explore the world of your conversation partner. I’ve read lists of ice breakers that run the gamut as far as types of questions to ask, but from my perspective there are some questions fresh relationships just aren’t ready for yet so I feel that limits are appropriate.
Getting to initially know someone, especially in a business networking environment, can effectively be done by sticking to F.O.R.M.E.L.: Family, Organization, Recreation, Message, Event, Location. Almost all of these topics are safe territory for initial conversations. All except Family. Family is ok only if the other person mentions it first (ie. “The family and I went to Chicago last week.”), otherwise best to avoid for reasons I’ll save for another time.
The rest are complete fair game as far as inviting conversation or asking deeper questions. This is the small talk that so many people lament, but if we listen, this is also where to gold in getting to know someone is. If we listen for what people don’t say as much as what they do say, opportunities for people to explain themselves and share more about themselves appear. And when they do, we can create the bonds and connections from which relationships are established.
This is all a part of the Authentic Networking System. Learn more about Authentic Networking at the Professional Networking Workshop on Nov 6th. If you are attending a networking event in the next week, these workshops provide networking practice, information, and resources. Learn and reinforce concepts, ideas, and processes that make networking more comfortable and effective. Workshop Info
If you missed earlier posts, or just want to see the entire Authentic Networking System all laid out, start to finish, download the printable PDF HERE.
