5 Networking Questions to Ask on LinkedIn

5 Networking Questions to Ask on LinkedIn5 Networking Questions to Ask on LinkedInSure, you know how to send an invite to other LinkedInmembers, but making the most of these valuable connections involves more than just adding them to your network. The real key to maximizing your LinkedIn membership is to employ the same techniques during online networking that youd use for face-to-face interactions. That often means asking the right networking questions when interacting with others individually and in LinkedIn groups.Here are five questions that will help you build familiarity, provide insight and get more connected.1. How did you get started?Theres no better way to get a conversation started than asking, What do you do? But, for obvious reasons, this and other similarly phrased networking questions simply dont work on LinkedIn.Instead, ask how your connections found their current position or how they began in the field. Youll gain information about a persons unique experiences and g ive them an opportunity to talk about their careers (and who doesnt like talking about themselves?). This inquiry could be especially fruitful if your contact is in a field youre trying to break into.2. What is your biggest challenge at work?This question can be particularly effective as a post in a networking group. For one, its a great way to build camaraderie. Asking for comments and sharing your own challenges helps those in the group bond over shared experiences. It also provides an opportunity for people to assist each other by describing strategies theyve used for overcoming on-the-job difficulties. If youre struggling with something at work or want to offer yourself as a resource, consider this query.3. What are your thoughts about ...?Fill in the blank here with the industrys latest buzzworthy book, breaking news about the field or a blog post thats making the rounds. The point is that questions that address changes in your profession are almost guaranteed to get a response and generate discussion.These types of networking questions also help you accomplish two things First, a question like this shows your contacts that youre clued-in to the latest trends - youll score extra points if you offer your own opinion, of course. Second, it helps you gather insight into the impact of new developments.4. Can you recommend other people or groups I should connect with?The most effective networkers are always looking to make new connections and uncover useful resources. And this question helps you do just that. After querying your contact, offer to return the favor. And be koranvers to thank him or her later, even if the recommendation did not pan out as youd hoped.5. How can I help you?This question gives people an open opportunity to ask for what they need - and allows you to position yourself as a possible solution. Even if youre not able to help outright, youll know what your connections are seeking. And the next person with whom you connect may have the p erfect solution to the last persons problem. Introduce them, and youll quickly become the most popular kid in class.Although having a few networking questions in mind to get the ball rolling can be useful, always remember to let conversations unfold naturally. Make the effort to be genuinely interested in what your connections have to say and respond accordingly. Its a surefire way to establish a strong relationship, instead of just an acquaintance.What networking questions do you like to ask on LinkedIn? Share them in the comments section.More advice on LinkedIn and networking6 Business Etiquette Tips When Using LinkedInHow To Network With Limited Free Time