Networking Starts with a Question, Not a Business Card

Networking Starts with a Question, Not a Business Card

Many people associate networking with exchanging contact details, but at its heart, it’s about having thoughtful conversations. Discover how your mindset can shape the way you build relationships.

A business card may preserve someone’s name, but it won’t tell you what they’re interested in or give you a natural way to continue the conversation. That’s where an unexpected side of networking comes into play: focus less on how many contacts you make and more on how attentively you engage in each conversation. Curiosity helps you find common ground, while a sense of responsibility and commitment can help you nurture the relationship after your first meeting.

Interested in this topic? Read more: The Attitudes That Influence Successful Networking Want to find out where you stand personally? Take a short test at the end of the page and gain a better understanding.

How does this apply to you? Choose the answers that describe you best:

Imagine you receive an invitation to a workshop outside of your field. How do you react?

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Your friend suggests a spontaneous trip with no clear destination. What will you do?

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At the work meeting, a new direction is being discussed. You:

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You will receive feedback that you could be more active. What comes to your mind first?

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You have one day just for yourself. How will you spend it?

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You've found yourself in a situation that you cannot influence. Your first reaction?

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In case of failure, you most often experience:

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Someone might tell you, "This probably can't be done." Your reaction?

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In conflicts with loved ones, you most often try to:

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When someone questions your idea:

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Find out which attitude leads you most often – curiosity, responsibility, fear, or determination?

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