Best Questions to Build Professional Connections

Networking can feel scary. It’s hard to know what to say to be successful. Here are 7 networking scripts to help you land more referrals: 1. “What do you think most people misunderstand about your field or role?” This question gets your contact talking about something they’re passionate about. It also lets them play the role of “expert” who is debunking the myths (something people love to do). Finally, it can give you some interesting new insights! 2. “I know you’re not hiring, but if you were me, how would you position my background?” This is a two-for-one deal. First, it gives you insight into how you can better position yourself based on your experience. Second, by positioning it as “I know you’re not hiring,” you open it up to them saying, “That’s not true, we are hiring!” and plants the seed for a referral. 3. “What’s the coolest / most exciting thing you’ve worked on in the past year?” This open ended question gets your contact talking about something they’re excited about and have positive associations with. That can give you insight into the role / team, but it will also give you more context around what this person cares about so you can lean into that as you build the relationship. 4. “Is there anyone else you think I should talk to?” This is a magical question because it creates a networking flywheel. Your contact is going to know other people in the space. If you ask this, you open the door for potential warm intros to other people you’d want to connect with anyways. Now you’re expanding your network without having to cold email! 5. “I’m especially interested in [area]. Does anything come to mind that I should be reading, following, or learning about?” This question gives you insight into the best ways to upskill. But it also opens the door for the next step in the relationship. When they share something, take action on it after your call. Then report back with what you learned and ask for more advice! 6. “If you had to start over in this field, is there anything you’d do differently?” This question gives your contact the chance to reflect on their journey and share advice. It can be helpful because it will show you common pitfalls and mistake to avoid as you’re trying to build your career in the same space. 7. “What’s something unexpected you’ve learned in your current role?” I love this question because most people aren’t prepare for it. That leads to some really fun, unique answers which give you insight into the role / team, as well as what this person values in terms of learnings and experience. Both of those things are job search gold!

𝗡𝗼𝘁 𝗦𝘂𝗿𝗲 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝘁𝗼 𝗦𝗮𝘆 𝗪𝗵𝗲𝗻 𝗡𝗲𝘁𝘄𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴? 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝗿𝘁 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗧𝗵𝗲𝘀𝗲 𝟱 𝗤𝘂𝗲𝘀𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 Networking can feel awkward if you don’t know what to ask. But the right questions can make conversations flow naturally—and even lead to job opportunities! Here are 5 simple questions to make networking easier: 1️⃣ “What’s a skill that helped you the most in your career but isn’t talked about enough?” – People love sharing insights that aren’t common knowledge. You’ll get advice that actually makes a difference. 2️⃣ “Who’s been the biggest influence in your career, and what’s the best lesson they taught you?” – This makes the conversation personal and helps you understand what they truly value in their career journey. 3️⃣ “I’m currently working on improving [Skill]. Would you recommend I do [Option A] or [Option B]?” – This makes it easy for them to give advice while showing that you value their expertise. Plus, you have a reason to follow up later! 4️⃣ “If you were in my position and looking for a job, what would you do?” – Instead of directly asking for a referral, this lets them offer guidance (or even connect you to someone). 5️⃣ “Who else would you recommend I connect with?” – A natural way to expand your network without sending random cold messages. Networking is about building real relationships. The more natural your conversations, the better results you’ll see!

Top 3 informational "interview" mistakes I see ... I have to be honest. I’ve had a lot of these conversations. I see the same missteps over and over. Doesn’t matter if you’re just starting out or deep into your career. Why most people miss the mark: 1️⃣ They treat it like a job interview (it’s not). 2️⃣ They ask surface-level questions (curiosity is your superpower—go beyond “What do you do?" "Can you recommend me for this role?") 3️⃣ They don’t follow up (huge missed opportunity. Not just immediately but 3-6-9 months out). Here’s how to fix it: ✅ Shift your mindset—go in to learn, not to impress. ✅ Ask better questions—“What skills helped you succeed?” “Based on my background, do you think I’d be a good fit for this role-company-industry?” "What keeps you excited about your work?" “Where do you see this industry heading?” "Who else would you recommend I speak with?" ✅ Follow up—send a thank-you, reference something specific and keep the door open. This is a great time to communicate your hook. Small tweaks, big impact. The goal isn’t just networking—it’s creating connections that open doors. Comment 👇, what are some of the pitfalls you see in these conversations?