How to Move Beyond Icebreakers
If you own a business or work in management, attending business functions is part of your job. Attending these business functions, be they formal parties, trade shows or conventions, gives you a chance to get to know others in the industry. Networking with other people in the same line of business can be good for your career, but only if you know how to move beyond simple icebreakers and into genuine conversation.
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Instructions
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Walk up to others who are attending the function and who appear to be by themselves. Introduce yourself and give the other party a firm handshake. Chat with your new acquaintance about new developments in the industry and ask about his own experience in the business.
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Ask those you meet what they do and what companies they work for. Inquire about people you both may know and ask about former colleagues or co-workers who are now working for that firm. Some industries are quite small, and you might very well have several friends and acquaintances in common.
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Carry a stack of business cards and hand them out to those you meet. Those business cards should include your name and title, the company you work for and an email address. If you are self-employed or own your own business, your business cards should also include your website address and any social networking profiles you want to provide.
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Ask the people you meet at those business functions about their families. Many people love to talk about their children, and talking about family members is a great way to not only break the ice but move into a meaningful conversation.
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References
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