Whether you’re a world champion networker, a total Networking newbie, each person tends to roll their eyes when it comes to starting a Conversation in a networking meet.

One of the most common concerns people have about networking is: How do I start a conversation with a person whom I don’t know? Everyone realizes the power of networking and the only problem is that they are not able to figure out the conversation starters for Effective Networking. The truth is, people will probably be relieved that someone else started the conversation!

This process of striking and having a smooth and enjoyable conversation with anyone in the room becomes much easier when you have prepared yourself for it. So, here are 5 Conversation starters for effective Networking which will help you break the ice and avoid all the awkward pauses.

This is the most basic way to strike a conversation with anyone in the Networking event. It is always easy to throw this question out there—and it is also an easy one for your conversational partner to answer. You may feel that this question is not a very thought-provoking one, but you may not want to throw a heavy question to anyone with whom you are meeting for the first time. So, asking them what brings them to that event or how did they hear about the event – is a way to start a conversation that may lead to an extended discussion about a topic of mutual interest with anyone. If nothing else, it’s a simple way to fill the silence for a while!

This is a slight variation of the previous conversation starter, and once again a friendly way to begin a talk that can be later initiated into a fruitful conversation. Merely asking the question will not satisfy the purpose of starting the conversation, the real purpose is to find and have a meaningful discussion with people of your interest and expand your network in a way that can help you to enhance your career. And the key to having a fruitful conversation is to be genuinely interested in the response. When you ask others -how are they enjoying the event, you may find mutual areas of interest, and this may turn into a detailed discussion on relevant topics for you.

When we ask someone- what do they do, the answer to this question is mostly restricted to their job title, occupation, or profession. But, if you ask them about the favorite part of their job, it shows that you are really interested in having a conversation with them and want to know them as a person past those standards, stiff job descriptions, and occupation.

This question may dig in a little deeper but this is an opportunity for you to know more about a specific industry or job and of course, it will definitely help you to keep the discussion rolling.

It always sparks a fascinating and non-generic conversation. The previous conversation starters may be somewhat simple and straightforward to find out what a person does, but asking them how they got there will give your discussion an interesting turn.

Hearing others’ stories of success and their journey can be a remarkable and encouraging reminder for you too. This question will allow the other person to voice out their stories and everyone knows, people always enjoy being heard at all places. Asking this question will certainly ensure that your discussion is not facing any awkward pauses!

People appreciate honesty and they all also like to be heard and understood. They’re also scared of being rejected or embarrassed. Putting yourself out there first makes it much easier for the other person to open up a little more. This is a humble way to put others at ease to have a conversation. Putting yourself out there is a powerful way to make a strong and interesting connection with anyone in the room.

These were the 5 conversations starters for effective Networking that you can use anywhere to start, have a smooth and enjoyable conversation, and avoid all that awkward silence in the room.