One of the secrets to business networking and building relationships is to become an expert at asking questions.  This is especially true when you are first finding out about someone’s business.  You want to become a detective and really dig into what’s going on in their professional life – because then you can find areas of opportunity where you can help them.

Once you’ve established a basic foundation with someone, you can take the time to find out the specifics about their business.  There are a variety of specific questions you can ask someone to find out more about how their business operates and how you can help them:

§         Develop their business

§         Solve professional problems

§         Create partnerships

§         Refer people to them

1. What is your biggest opportunity?
• How can your business grow right now?
• What obstacle is holding you back?
• What is your biggest challenge?
• What is your biggest headache?
• What is causing you a lot of problems right now?

2. What are you the best at?
• What is your primary service?
• Why do people like to work with you?
• What are you famous/known for?
• What would your customers say you are best at?
• What do you love doing?

3. How can I help?
• Who are your best customers?
• How can I best explain what you do?
• What do you look for in a partner?
• Where can outside support help you?
• How have people in my position served you before?

Remember, the more you can help other people, the more help you’ll get in return.