Be Curious and ask “Why”

There are lots of different questions that you can ask when networking to get the conversation started and to find out more about the people around you or a particular contact. The important thing is to ask questions, be curious and listen to the response given and continue the conversation.

Why are you having the conversation?

Start by asking why you are having the conversation. What do you need to learn? If you have arranged a follow-up fact-finding meeting with a contact (or informational interview) you should have prepared a list of questions in advance. This will mentally help you to prepare and identify the key points that you wish to discuss.

Be Curious and Ask Why?

Although preparing a list of questions can help you prepare. It is important to be curious. Being curious and asking “why” leads to knowledge and will hopefully lead to a deeper more meaningful conversation. As asking “why” in a curious and open (non-judgmental) manner can make the conversation more open you will potentially get more out of the conversation you are having (instead of having idle chitchat or just touching the surface of the conversation with your list of questions).

So just ask Why?!