6 Easy (And Effective) Networking Icebreakers

Got a great networking event or party lined up? We understand that networking with strangers can be a little daunting, nerve-wracking and sometimes downright awkward.

That’s where we come in. The good news is that we did the legwork for you and spoke with several industry experts to talk about the best, most effective tips on starting conversations. If you follow these quick tips, you’ll realize that if you’re well-equipped with the right networking icebreakers, building networking opportunities will get easier and easier.

Shockingly Easy Networking Icebreakers

So, before your next big social or professional gathering, keep this in mind:

1. Help Other Attendees Mingle

Most people can see right through the typical sales guy…trying to schmooze you up so that you’ll give him what he actually wants.

Don’t be that sales guy. The best way to network is to follow the golden rule. Do to others what you want others to do for you at a networking event. In other words, rather than trying to be self-serving, see if you can help someone else out. Odds are that everyone else at your event is nervous as well.

So, when you meet someone new, “Make sure you first uncover their business and needs, to see how you can help them,” says Anna Keeve, program manager of Stalwart Communications. “Genuine interest in learning about them, and having the mentality of how you can help them, will almost always come back to help you.”