You walk into a networking event, drink in hand, scanning the room for a friendly face, when suddenly, your mind goes blank. What do you say? If this sounds painfully familiar, don’t worry, we’ve all been there, though some are better at hiding it than others.

But take heart, because great networking isn’t about being the most confident or outgoing person in the room, but about asking thoughtful questions that elicit meaningful conversations. The good news is that you can learn to network so you no longer feel lost or awkward at these often overwhelming workplace events.

In the following blog, we provide 15 conversation starters for professional networking at both in-person and online events to help you make lasting, valuable connections.

Choosing the Right Conversation Starter

The trick to great networking isn’t just having something to say. It’s choosing the right thing to say. A thoughtful conversation starter can turn a quick introduction into a meaningful connection. The key is to be intentional and genuine in how you open the conversation.

Here are a few simple tips to get started.

• Ask open-ended questions — if you want to encourage a meaningful conversation, make sure you ask them. Open-ended questions require more than a yes-or-no answer and invite the recipient to share stories, opinions, and experiences, making the exchange more natural and engaging.
• Avoid generic questions like “What do you do?“— while it’s a common (lazy) icebreaker, it can quickly lead to rehearsed answers. Try engaging with more curiosity by asking, “What inspired you to get into your line of work?” or “What projects are you most excited about right now?”
• Show genuine curiosity — people can tell when you’re truly interested in them. Listen actively, make eye contact, and respond with follow-up questions. After all, the goal is to build rapport, not just exchange information.
• Adapt to the event type — what works at a casual after-work event might not suit a formal conference. At a professional gathering, you could comment on a speaker or an industry topic; at a relaxed catch-up, something lighter like “What brings you along tonight?” works well.

When you’re genuinely curious, you’ll find that conversations come more naturally. Try to focus on the other person, so networking feels less like small talk and more like the beginning of a valuable professional relationship.

 

1. “What brought you to this event?”

When to use: at conferences, social networking events, or workshops.

Why: It’s a friendly, easy conversation starter that shows interest and helps you learn what people are hoping to get out of the event.

2. “How did you get started in your industry?”

When to use: Once you’ve exchanged names and a bit of background.

Why: Invites a good yarn about their career journey and helps build a genuine connection.

3. “What’s been the most exciting project you’ve worked on recently?”

When to use: When you want to move past small talk and hear about their work.

Why: Keeps things positive and helps uncover shared interests or passions.

4. “I saw your company recently did ___. How was that experience?”

When to use: When chatting online (like on LinkedIn) or if you’ve done some research before an event and want to connect with a specific person or organisation.

Why: Shows you’ve done your homework and makes your approach feel thoughtful and genuine.

5. “What’s one skill you believe is crucial in your career right now?”

When to use: During a deeper chat about industry trends or changes.

Why: Sparks interesting conversation around professional development opportunities.

6. “I’m looking for ways to move forward in my career. How do you stay current in your field?”

When to use: When talking with someone more experienced or in a mentoring role.

Why: Shows you have a growth mindset and often elicits helpful advice or resources.

7. “Have you been to events like this before?”

When to use: At the start of a networking event, especially if you’ve just met.

Why: A light, easy icebreaker that can lead to tips or shared experiences.

8. “What do you enjoy most about what you do?”

When to use: Once the conversation is initiated, and you want to keep it upbeat.

Why: Brings out enthusiasm and helps you learn what motivates them.

9. “Who else do you think I should meet today?”

When to use: During group networking events or conferences.

Why: A great way to expand your network, and people usually enjoy making introductions.

10. “I’d love to stay in touch. What’s the best way to connect?”

When to use: As you’re wrapping up a chat or when the event is coming to a close.

Why: A natural, polite way to end on a good note and set up future follow-up (LinkedIn, email, or coffee catch-up).

 

Tips for Using Conversation Starters Effectively

Networking conversation starters are an excellent foundation, but to really stand out at your next event, keep the following tips in mind. When you understand how to network, you’ll boost your confidence and leave a good first impression.

• Listen more than you talk.
• Read the room and adapt your tone and energy.
• Have a few stories ready about your own work so you can reciprocate.
• Follow up within 24–48 hours (LinkedIn message or a quick email).

Conversation Starters for Online Networking

Networking online, whether on LinkedIn, professional forums or virtual events, is different to in-person conversations. You don’t have body language or tone to rely on, so your message needs to sound genuine and personal. Start by showing genuine interest in a person’s work or opinions before getting to what you’re hoping to achieve from the interaction. It’s about starting a professional conversation that’s mutually beneficial, rather than sending a cold message.

The following conversation starters work perfectly for LinkedIn or virtual events.

11. I really enjoyed your recent post on ___. I’d love to hear more about it.”

When to use: When you’ve come across someone’s post, article, or comment that genuinely interests you.

Why it works: Shows you’ve taken the time to read their content and appreciate their point of view. It opens the door for a thoughtful, two-way conversation beyond surface-level comments.

12. “I see we share connections at (company or industry). How has your experience been there?”

When to use: When reaching out to a new contact on LinkedIn or after connecting online.

Why it works: Creates instant common ground by pointing out shared networks. A friendly, non-intrusive way to start chatting about their workplace or professional experience.

13.  “I’m attending this virtual event too. What made you decide to join?”

“When to use: During or just before a webinar, online panel, or virtual networking session.

Why it works: Establishes shared context right away and makes it easy to start a casual, relevant chat. It’s also a nice segue into discussing the event’s interests, goals, or key takeaways.

14. “I’ve been exploring (topic/skill) recently. I noticed you’ve done some great work in that area. Any advice for someone starting out?”

When to use: When connecting with someone more experienced in a field or skill you’re developing.

Why it works: Demonstrates initiative, curiosity, and respect for their expertise. It’s a subtle way to seek mentorship or guidance without coming across as pushy.

15. “I noticed your expertise in (topic). I’m curious what resources (book, article, or podcast) shaped the way you approach it?”

When to use: When you follow up after engaging with content or after a conversation at an in-person event.

Why it works: It works well because it doesn’t rely on in-person energy. It’s simple, genuine curiosity that invites a thoughtful response.

 

When you learn how to network successfully, you’ll be surprised by how many new opportunities come your way, often when you least suspect them! The right conversation starter can turn a quick chat into a lasting and valuable connection, which is what networking is really about. All you need is networking skills, a bit of curiosity, and a genuine interest, and you’ll be starting conversations that go somewhere in no time!

 

Want to build stronger networking skills? Explore our micro-credential, Develop and Maintain Networks and Collaborative Partnerships, designed to help you build and maintain strong networks and partnerships with key people and organisations. Talk to one of our helpful Course Consultants today on 1300 76 2221, via Live Chat, or Enquire Online for more information.