Finding ways to get conversations started and smoothly approach new people at networking events can be a challenge for some. Starting from scratch can seem hard, and making “small talk” can seem daunting too. One “trick” for approaching people and starting up an introductory conversation is to see if they have anything in their hands, and use THAT as a jumping-off point.
Now, granted, people don’t ALWAYS have something in their hands, but they often do. Often, they are carrying a book, magazine, or newspaper, or may be holding a purse, bag or datebook. Making a casual comment, or, even better, asking a question about what they have can be a good way to make contact and lead to a self-introduction and conversation.
The goal, of course, is to come across as interested and engaged, without being annoying or pesky. For example, a quick transition into business can be jarring an offensive: “What is that book you are reading? Oh, really, I recently read a book that changed how I operate my home business…” This is too obvious and takes the attention away from the other person. As I’ve mentioned before, we can learn so much more about people by asking questions and listening to the answers than we can by just talking up our own agendas.
Instead, try something like: “Is that today’s newspaper? Did you see the article in there about the rezoning along the railway tracks?” This may be enough to invite the other person into a conversation and you’ve asked them a question that could lead to a revealing and appropriate discussion. It can be amazing how much you can learn about another person from a seemingly simple conversation about current events including political leanings, family status, where they work, etc. And, this is how “networking” gets started.
Also: Nametags and Networking Go Hand-in-Hand
Don’t Overlook the Power of Small Talk