Etiquette is the concept of being polite, having good manners, and knowing how to conduct yourself in all sorts of situations. Most situations require basic etiquette and professional networking events are no exception. But sometimes, it can be tricky trying to figure out how to behave and what to say at a career fair. Asking questions and conducting yourself professionally is great, but what exact questions can you ask to break the ice? What do you do after the fair concludes?
NETWORKING ETIQUETTE
Being polite goes a long way and that saying holds true with networking. Networking is also dependent on how you carry and present yourself in mixed company. When you have the opportunity to widen your network, you must dress professionally, engage appropriately, and always listen (i.e. do not ask, “what exactly does your job entail?” if your new connection has already described their position and industry in detail). Listening is not the same thing as hearing. Listen carefully to make a great impression and help your new connection feel confident that their time was well spent getting to know you.
Another factor of etiquette that is crucial for networking is following up! After meeting somebody new at a career fair, a seminar, or even in your new position, it is important to stay in touch. This can be a thank you email for connecting (particularly if done on LinkedIn), sending periodic messages, congratulatory messages, or sharing information that you think may be valuable for your new contact, especially if working in the same industry. In some cases, the lack of a follow up could cause your connection to think that you do not appreciate the previous networking experience.
CONVERSATION STARTERS
It can be tricky to figure out how to begin your networking journey. Talking about an industry or position with a stranger can be scary! But that is where conversation starters come in. Conversation starters are short questions that can help begin a meaningful conversation. While it can be helpful to have a conversation starter about the industry or role of the person with whom you’re networking, not all have to be related to work. Below are some fantastic conversation starters:
- >What has made you laugh recently?
- >Are you working on anything exciting lately?
- >Do you have any pets?
- >When travel is safe again, what’s one place you would love to visit?
Conversation starters are a great way to break the ice and establish a friendly rapport with your new connection. However, it is also important to avoid bad conversation starters. Below are some not so fantastic conversation starters:
- >Are you married?
- >Where do you live?
- >That’s a lovely dress…you have an amazing figure.
- >Your English is really good! Where are you from?
As a general rule, it is a good idea to avoid asking personal questions, questions/comments that could be seen as flirtatious or inappropriate, and making assumptions about the other person’s background based only on their appearance.
Credit: campusenterprises
