You've arrived at your local business networking event with a stack of business cards, and can't wait to meet as many people as possible. Already, you've met a new contact, and exchanged names and business cards. Now what do you say?

Asking open-ended questions is a great way to get a lively conversation going. Questions that begin with "Who?" "How?" "Why?" and "Where?" are the best. By using them, you avoid the all-too-common "yes" or "no" answers that cause conversational roadblocks.

To get you started, here are 10 questions that work well in any business setting, but particularly with entrepreneurs.

How did you get started in your business/industry?
What has been the "tipping point" in your business/career?
What has been your most effective marketing tactic?
What is the latest book you’ve read? What's your assessment of it?
What are the 3 most influential business/motivational books you've ever read?
What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
What do you have on your plate for this week?
How do you accomplish your goals? Which productivity tips have you found helpful?
What trends do you see coming to your industry?
How do you want your customers to remember/perceive your business?

These questions cover enough material to keep your conversation going for hours, as well as provide gateways to new topics of discussion. Happy networking!

Josiah Mackenzie
http://www.mypalpad.com