Achieving the "Curiosity Advantage" When Networking

What if I told you the secret to becoming a better networker isn’t about talking more, but about asking better questions?

Curiosity is one of the most underrated tools in your networking toolkit.

It builds rapport, deepens conversations, and leaves a lasting impression on the people you meet.

Today, we’ll explore how leveraging the "Curiosity Advantage" can transform your networking experience—and your results.

Why Curiosity Works

In networking, most people focus on what they’re going to say about themselves

Their pitch, their business, their achievements.

But here’s the truth:

• People love to talk about themselves.
• They feel valued and heard when you show genuine interest.
• Curiosity deepens conversations, creating more meaningful connections.

When you lead with curiosity, you shift the spotlight to the other person.

In return, they’re more likely to remember and value you.

Curiosity starts with being genuinely interested.

This comes from asking good questions.

Curiosity > Good Questions > The "Three Levels"

The problem with networking is not bad conversations.

It's bad questions.

The best networkers know how to ask questions that build trust and unlock deeper conversations.

There’s levels to good questions.

Here’s what I mean:

Level 1: Breaking the Ice

These are simple, surface-level questions to ease into the conversation:

• “What brought you to this event?”
• “How did you get started in your industry?”
• “What’s been keeping you busy lately?”

Purpose: Break the ice and establish initial rapport. Aim to avoid “what do you do?” (yawn).

Level 2: Exploration

Once the conversation warms up, dig a little deeper to uncover interests and challenges:

• "What’s the most exciting thing you’re working on right now?"
• "What challenges are you facing in your business?"
• "What trends are you noticing in your industry?"

Purpose: Show genuine interest and start uncovering opportunities for collaboration or value exchange.

Level 3: Connection:

This is where the real magic happens. These questions deepen the conversation and build trust:

• "If we were to meet again a year from now, what would you hope to have accomplished?"
• "What’s a challenge you’ve overcome recently that you’re proud of?"
• "Who has inspired you most in your career, and why?"

Purpose: Create a memorable, meaningful connection.

Being Authentically Curious Beyond Questions

Curiosity isn’t just about asking questions.

It’s about how you ask and respond:

• Listen Actively: Pay attention to their answers and follow up with thoughtful responses or further questions.
• Be Present: Avoid distractions like checking your phone. Or thinking about the next conversation you're joining. Focus entirely on the one you're in.
• Engage Nonverbally: Nod, smile, and maintain eye contact to show you’re genuinely interested. Be a 'loud listener'.
• Avoid Interrupting: Let them finish their thoughts before jumping in with your own. Listen to understand, not reply.

Authentic curiosity can’t be faked.

It’s about genuinely wanting to understand the other person.

Unlock the "Curiosity Reciprocity" Effect

Here’s the best part about leading with curiosity.

It’s contagious.

When you ask great questions and show genuine interest, people feel inclined to ask you about yourself.

Well, the right kind of people will.

This creates a balanced conversation where you both walk away feeling valued.

The Wrap-Up

Curiosity is the ultimate networking superpower.

It allows you to connect on a deeper level, uncover opportunities, and make a lasting impression.

It can create an advantage for you over the many other networkers out there not following this approach.

By focusing on what you can learn from others, rather than what you can say about yourself, you’ll stand out in any room.

So, the next time you walk into a networking event, leave your sales pitch at the door and bring your curiosity instead.

You might be surprised at what it uncovers.

Happy networking!