by Don Straits
How much do you really know about navigating networking events? This little quiz is a fun way to brush up on your schmoozing skills without having to balance a drink or hail a cab.
When meeting someone at a networking function, you should begin the conversation with:
A. casual conversation about the weather, sports, movies, pets or common interests.
B. a brief background on your career and the type of new position you are seeking.
C. questions about his/her career or why he/she is attending the function.
If you are having a difficult time getting a conversation started or if you are uncomfortable with networking, you should:
A. wait for someone to approach you to begin a conversation.
B. admit that sometimes these functions are awkward for you and ask the person for tips on how he/she goes about getting to know someone.
C. try meeting people around the food table and talk about how great the caviar tastes.
The best conversationalists are people who can:
A. ask other people interesting questions.
B. talk comfortably on a wide range of topics.
C. always pick up the conversation when others run out of things to say.
The best way to show respect for what someone else is saying is to:
A. compliment him/her on what he/she has said.
B. ask others to join your conversation to hear what he/she is saying.
C. be a good listener, provide responsive gestures and ask good follow-up questions.
When preparing for a networking function, you should:
A. keep up to date on current events, world affairs, emerging business trends and state-of-the-art management or leadership concepts.
B. ask the host in advance for a list of the guests and their backgrounds.
C. bring a small note pad and pen to write down contact information or schedule meetings.
After meeting someone, if you feel there is no potential for him/her to help you in your job search, you should:
A. politely excuse yourself and continue to meet other people.
B. not be too quick to judge.
C. continue to talk to him/her but try to get others to join in your conversation so that you can meet new people.
After you have established a common interest and believe you would like to spend more time talking to this individual, you should:
A. suggest he/she excuse himself from the function and go to a restaurant or other room where you can talk confidentially about your career or possible job opportunities.
B. set an appointment to meet with him/her at a later date.
C. ask for his/her business card and permission to call in a few days perhaps to find a time when you could meet.
If you are networking and someone latches on to you and follows you everywhere, you should:
A. politely involve him/her in all of your conversations.
B. tell him/her to get lost.
C. excuse yourself from him/her, indicating that you have to meet with someone or perhaps visit the restroom.