When interacting with people at networking events, you want to make sure that you are a good conversationalist. Don’t make people uncomfortable so only talk about topics that don’t require either of you to take a side. Below is a list of 10 topics that are good conversation starters. Not all topics need to be business related.
1. Hot new business book
2. New business trend
3. Economy
4. Employers
5. Hobbies
6. Family
7. Networking event/organization that brought you together
8. Business skills
9. Helping each other
10. Vacations
What other topics can you think of?
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Hi Jason,
these are a few extra ones:
- Theme of the meeting
- Speaker (if there is one)
- Connection with the organisation
I would avoid talking about the economy these days because it might bring a negative spiral into a conversation which can be hard to get out of.
I would talk about vacations, but only with people you already know or with new people later in a conversation. So in general I wouldn't advise using it as a conversation starter at a business event.
Have a great networking day !
Jan
Jan Vermeiren, Founder of Networking Coach (http://www.networking-coach.com)
Posted by: Jan Vermeiren | October 21, 2008 at 01:03 AM
Good points Jan. I agree with you that the economy may be a poor subject these days.
Posted by: Jason Jacobsohn | October 21, 2008 at 08:08 PM