At events or in new environments, the questions you ask can make all the difference in forming genuine connections. Rather than engaging in ordinary small talk, use high-status framing questions that invite insight and opportunity from the start.
Instead of asking, "How do you know the host?" or "What brought you here today?" try asking, "What inspires you about this event?" or "What excites you about the future of your industry and how do you see your work contributing to it?" These questions project confidence and curiosity, positioning you as a thoughtful leader.
Thoughtful, open-ended questions foster trust and lead to deeper conversations. Unlike shallow small talk, it gives a better opportunity for people to feel genuinely heard, making them more likely to share valuable insights and build rapport. This approach transforms casual encounters into opportunities for collaboration and growth.
Of course, not everyone will respond positively. Some may find these high-status framing questions challenging or unfamiliar, and that is perfectly fine. Recognise the signal and politely move on, knowing that every conversation is a meaningful, however short.
As you increase the quality of your questions, you elevate your presence in every conversation, turning brief encounters into a powerful connections. Next time you’re in a new setting, think deeper about your questions. Frame them to unlock potential and drive engaging conversations in a way that most people have never experiences.