Good networking questions are open, easy to answer and about the other person: "What brings you here today?", "What are you working on at the moment?", "What's been the best part of the event so far?". Ask one, listen, then ask a follow-up about their answer. Below are 40 networking questions grouped by stage of the conversation, plus icebreakers, speed networking questions and how to ask for someone's details at the end.
Icebreakers to start a conversation
Start with the place you're both in. It's the one thing you have in common.
- What brings you to this event?
- Have you been to this event before?
- Which talk are you most looking forward to?
- How do you know the host?
- What did you think of that last session?
- Is this your first time in [city]?
- Mind if I join you? I don't know anyone here yet.
- That's a great [badge / bag / notebook]. Where's it from?
- What's the best conversation you've had here so far?
Questions about their work
- What are you working on at the moment?
- How did you get into [their field]?
- What does a normal week look like in your role?
- What's the most interesting project you've worked on this year?
- What's the hardest part of your job right now?
- Who are the people you most like working with?
- What's changing most in your industry?
- What made you choose [their company]?
- What would your clients say you're best at?
Questions to go deeper
Once the conversation is moving, ask something that gets a real answer.
- What's something you're excited about outside work?
- What advice would you give someone starting in your field?
- What's a decision you'd make differently if you started again?
- What are you trying to learn at the moment?
- What's the best thing you've read or listened to recently?
- What would make this event worth it for you?
- Who else here should I meet?
- How can I help with what you're working on?
Speed networking questions
Speed networking gives you a few minutes per person, often 3 to 5, before you swap. Use short questions that get to the point.
- In one sentence, what do you do?
- Who are you hoping to meet today?
- What's one problem you'd love help with?
- What kind of people do you work best with?
- What's the best way to stay in touch with you?
- Is there anyone I could introduce you to?
Have a one-line answer ready for each of these yourself. See elevator pitch examples for a short introduction.
Questions to ask as a job seeker
- How did you get your first role in this field?
- What skills matter most in your team right now?
- What do you wish you'd known before joining your company?
- Is there someone you'd suggest I talk to next?
If you're a student, see networking tips for college students.
Questions to close the conversation
- It's been great talking. Can I send you that article we mentioned?
- Would you be open to a coffee next week to continue this?
- What's the best way to reach you?
- Shall we connect so I can send you the details?
How to ask for someone's contact details politely
Ask once the conversation has a reason to continue, and give the reason:
- "I'd like to send you that guide. What's the best email for you?"
- "Can we swap details? I'll introduce you to [name] this week."
- "I'd love to follow up on this. Should I message you on LinkedIn or by email?"
Make it easy by going first. Show your QR code or share your card link, and the other person can save your details and send theirs back in one step. Then write down one thing you talked about, so your follow-up has something specific in it.
Swap details in one scan. Make a free digital business card. Show your QR code at the end of a conversation, and people save your details and can send theirs back, with no app needed.
Types of networking events
The right questions depend on the kind of event.
| Event | What to expect |
|---|---|
| Mixers and drinks | Short, casual chats. Start with icebreakers and keep it light |
| Conferences and trade shows | Talks plus open time. Ask about sessions and what people came for |
| Speed networking | Timed rounds of a few minutes each. Use the short questions above |
| Workshops and talks | Smaller groups with a shared topic. Ask what they took from it |
| Industry associations | Regular meetings with the same members. Relationships build over months |
| Leads groups | Small groups, such as BNI chapters, where members pass each other referrals. Usually one member per profession and a weekly meeting |
| Online groups and events | LinkedIn groups, Slack communities and virtual events. Swap details by link instead of in person |
| Career fairs | Employers and candidates. Ask about roles, teams and next steps |
A networking group is a set of people who meet regularly to build business relationships and pass on referrals. Leads groups are the most structured kind, with membership rules and set meeting times.
Going to a conference? See the free conference networking kit.
Networking conversation mistakes to avoid
- Leading with what you sell.
- Asking yes-or-no questions one after another.
- Looking around the room while they talk.
- Staying too long. Ten minutes is plenty at most events.
- Leaving without a way to reach each other.
