How can you show genuine interest in a new contact when networking?

I prefer not to talk about work and instead just have normal conversation and in that process you will find out things that you have in common. I always make a joke when people ask me what I do, I say I eat, sleep, breath and sleep again just to make a point of starting with a normal conversation. I would say, ask them how they are, how their day has been and one thing that always works complement something you like about them. For example it could be something that they're wearing.

Showing genuine interest and authenticity is critical. Here are my tips: - Ask about their story. - Know their achievements and ask them to learn more. - Do little compliments. - Be genuinely curious. To do all of the above; Ask open-ended questions that lead to conversation. The key is always to start the conversation. Your next step will be relationship building.

When networking, demonstrating genuine interest in new contacts is vital. Actively listen and ask open-ended questions to understand them better. Use their name to personalize conversations and find common ground for deeper connections. Offer sincere compliments and assistance where possible. Don't forget to follow up to express continued interest and respect their time. Share insights, express gratitude, and stay curious about their field. Be authentic, let your natural interest shine, and explore collaboration opportunities if relevant. True connections are built on the foundation of genuine curiosity, empathy, authenticity, sincere interest, and the commitment to add meaningful value in networking.

Showing genuine interest in a new contact when networking should be easy. There's no point in attending a networking event if you're not interested in meeting new people and finding out about them. If you're not interested - DON'T GO! When I attend a networking event, I know ... I can guarantee ... I will leave that event with something useful for me. I've no idea in advance what that "useful" will be - but I'll find it. And I'm curious to find out what it is. It may be an interesting and skilled person. It may be a useful resource. It may be a snippet of information I can use to improve my work and my business. But where will that "useful" be? I'm genuinely interested in everything a new contact says - as they may have that "useful".

Simply ask a genuine question that you really want the answer to....Then listen and respond to prove that you care and were listening. Then, the best happens; they continue and so do YOU!

I like to engage and most importantly listen. Try not to take over the conversation and find out about the person, not necessarilly about their business.

Active listening also means listening to the completion of the person's response. Many people start thinking about their next response and stop listening to the full story.

Body language will probably do 90% of the work here. Never forget you actually have a body 😂😂😂 And tell your brain stop thinking about follow up questions and just listen! Maybe write it on a piece of paper! So yes always bring a paper and pen agenda!

Networking is more than just talking. It's about listening. Here's why attentive and active listening is crucial: -Catching details -Building rapport -Clarifying Goals -Spotting Opportunities -Earning Respect Want to make lasting connections? Listen more than you speak.

Go with the attitude of who can I help, rather than who can help me. Whether it be passing on a contact, sharing an article with them after the event that would be of interest or making a mental note of them so you can refer them when an opportunity arises, it all starts to build your reputation as someone people need to know and work with.

Personal stories matter. They build trust. But the story should be relevant. Here's why sharing stories matter: -Shows authenticity -Create bonds -You can highlight relevant skills -Evokes emotions -Builds credibility Share your story. It makes you memorable.

Sharing stories is great, but try to keep them short and then end with a broad opening to turn the conversation back to the other person. Often times, someone will start telling their own stories and take over the conversation leaving little room for others to add value.

It will always be easier to remember someone if you have something in common. If you ask in one of you open questions what does that person do in their free time and you find out that you share a same hobby, mention that to that person and you will instantly create a connection and easily remember each other.

Like it was mentioned here by another contributor, if you pay attention and actively listen to what the other person is saying giving a specific compliment will be a piece of cake and it will come naturally to compliment the other person's achievement.

One of the most successful exercises I ever had at one of my events was focused on this. It was a women's event and all the women stood in 2 lines face to face. As an alternative introduction, they exchanged names and each told the other something they noticed on first impression of the other person. There was not only strong connection but also incredible confidence building.

If you are actively listening (see tip above), this isn‘t hard at all! Everybody welcomes recognition - but we can all spot fake and empty words so make sure listen carefully and pick out anything that is new, different or exciting to you. It‘s a great way to establish a positive relationship. Even if what „binds“ you is a difference!

Definitely the networking meeting is just the start of the conversation. Make sure you connect away from the meeting, have 1-2-1’s and genuinely stay in touch to build relationships that will help you build your business or career.

I love to talk about personal stuff when I’m networking, but not everyone is eager to share beyond the professional. I like to ask, “how’s your summer/fall/etc going?” If they want to tell you about their kids’ soccer or next vacation, they will; and if they want to tell you their progress on quarterly goals, they will. This question avoids any awkwardness while you try to figure out how personal the discussion will be.

Learn to have a genuine interest. Just listen to that new connection. If the conversation is not going well ask some other questions; how do you get into this business? Have you travelled far? Who ideally are you looking for? These will always steer towards conversations you can click with, or support them, as the ‘givers gain’ always works in the end. The more you support others, the more they’ll support you!

Let the other person forget that you are a salesman. Dont talk about work. I even say, forget about work now. What do you like to do? Do you have a family? Hobbies? When I find a common ground I encourage him to talk about it. I ask question. I share some of my stories, experiences. Listen more and talk less. Remember, make notes of what was said so you can use it next time to continue/open the conversation again. If you managed to create a moment of mutual understanding, feeling of shared values. You made the most important step towards creating a relationship, trust with your customer.