Networking Event Conversation Starters

What's the worst networking event you've ever been to?

What's a question you wish people would ask instead of 'What do you do?'

What's a skill you have that has nothing to do with your job?

What's a podcast or book you've been recommending to everyone?

What's something you're learning right now just for fun?

What's a food at this event that's surprisingly good (or bad)?

What's a project you're excited about that isn't work-related?

What's a travel destination on your list that's not for work?

What's a hobby you've picked up in the last year?

What's something that made you laugh recently?

What's a career moment that made you feel like you're in the right field?

What's a failure that taught you something valuable?

What's a piece of advice you'd give someone starting in your industry?

What's a trend in your field that you're skeptical about?

What's a person who's been a mentor to you (formally or not)?

What's a work problem you're trying to solve that you'd love input on?

What's something you've changed your mind about professionally?

What's a skill you're currently trying to develop?

What's a project you worked on that you're genuinely proud of?

What's a question about your industry you wish more people asked?

What's a moment in your career that felt like a turning point?

What does 'success' mean to you that has nothing to do with titles or money?

What's a risk you took professionally that scared you?

What's a value that's non-negotiable for you in a job?

What's a hope you have for your industry's future?

What's something you wish you'd known earlier in your career?

What's a way work has changed who you are as a person?

What's a boundary you've learned to set to protect your peace?

What's a legacy you want to leave in your professional community?

What's one thing you want to be true about your career when you look back?