Professionals, entrepreneurs and students alike can benefit greatly from networking as an avenue for business and social success. Learning to network with confidence and purpose are keys to succeeding in all aspects of networking. Individuals should be focused on making great first impressions, being professional, communicating well with others and developing their skills and talents. Although, these are ideal for any networker, individual must guard themselves on how they conduct their conversations and build relationships with their counterparts. Asking the wrong question, can give off the wrong impression which can lead to a terrible domino effect.

Listed below are questions that professionals, students, and entrepreneurs should avoid asking at networking events.

#1 How much money do you make?

Unless you work for the IRS or handle some type of census, avoid this question at all costs. Networking events are designed to encourage professionals to connect through business and social matters. Asking too many personal questions can create tension and bad feelings. While networking professionals should try and respect the privacy and personal lives of their counterparts. If the discussion leads to personal finances and people are willing to share information, then that is ok. Otherwise, find other topics to discuss and engage in meaningful conversations.

#2 How do you get paid?

This question is very similar to the above question but also can create a negative impact or vibe to the conversation or networking environment. The question is too direct and harsh, especially if you are meeting someone for the first time. Once again, it is proper etiquette to respect the other person's privacy and do not appear to be overbearing or unreasonably nosey. If you are interested in asking this type of question, there are ways to format it in a more professional and tasteful manner. For example, you can ask similar but not so offensive questions such as, "Where do you work?", "Who is your employer?", "How long have you been in your profession?", "What is your educational background?", "Do you do work outside of your full time or present job?". These type of questions can allude to how your counterpart makes their income.

#3 What do you do?

This might surprise many readers, but the actual question is not bad or offensive it is just the tone or manner in which it is asked. If you ask the question as though you are un-interested or just trying to push time, then it can really change the mood of the conversation. Some people ask the question as a challenge to compare skills, abilities, backgrounds or status. So it is important to state the question properly and show a genuine interest in your counterpart. Similar and less offensive questions can include, "What is your profession?", "Who is your employer?", "What do you like about your job or career?", "What is your formal training and how does it relate to your work?"

Chi Chi Okezie is owner/producer of SIMPLEnetworking, LLC in Metro-Atlanta, GA. Newly published author of "SIMPLEnetworking: Creating Opportunities... The new form of success!" View excerpts of the book and polish your professional approach: http://www.snseminars.com