Breaking the Ice with Confidence: What to Ask When Networking

Preparing thoughtful questions before a networking conversation can make all the difference. The right questions help you learn about someone’s career journey, uncover insights about their field and build a meaningful connection.

Ask About Their Career Path

I love to ask people how they got into their line of work. People enjoy sharing their stories, and their answers often reveal interesting and unexpected insights. Try questions like:

“What made you decide to become a scientist?”

“How did you get started in your field?”

“What inspired you to join this industry?”

One of my favorite examples comes from a client who was a periodontist. I asked him, “What made you decide to become a periodontist?” He smiled and said, “When I was a kid, I had a friend whose dad was a periodontist. He worked from his home office and we’d hang out there. He had these models of teeth and jaws, and we’d play with them. He even showed us pictures from surgeries he had done. And I thought it was really fun and cool!”

That’s a great example of how childhood curiosity can turn into a lifelong career! These kinds of stories not only make conversations more engaging but also give you a glimpse into what truly motivates someone.

Learn About Their Work

If you’re curious about their current role or industry, try asking:

“What does a typical day look like for you?”

“What do you enjoy most about your job?”

“What are some of the biggest challenges in your field?”

For entrepreneurs, asking about their origin story can be particularly engaging:

“What inspired you to start this company?”

“What was the biggest hurdle you faced early on?”

Everyone has a story, and these questions invite them to share it.

Gain Insights on Company Culture

If you’re exploring career options, asking about their workplace can provide valuable insights:

“What’s the work environment like at your company?”

“How would you describe the culture there?”

“What do you think makes someone successful in your role?”

Be Curious, Not Interrogative

The key to great networking conversations is curiosity, not interrogation. Approach questions with genuine interest rather than as a checklist to get through. Let the conversation flow naturally and allow the other person to reveal as much—or as little—as they’re comfortable with.

A well-placed question can turn a simple introduction into a meaningful connection.