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How do I make people feel like I am genuinely interested in them and not just looking for a job, in networking conversations?

I am a rising college freshman. How do I make professionals feel like I am genuinely interested in finding out more about them and their paths and avoid coming across as only speaking to them in order to get a job/ help, particularly in networking sessions? #Spring26

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Simmy’s Answer

When chatting with new people, it feels more genuine when you show real interest in them instead of focusing on what you can get out of it. Ask them thoughtful questions about their experiences and choices, and really listen to what they say. Share a little about yourself, but don't go overboard talking about your own successes right away. Keep the conversation curious and end it with a thank you or something you learned, instead of asking for a favor. This makes the interaction feel more respectful and sincere.
Thank you comment icon Thank you. I am really grateful for your thoughtful response. Kofi
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Nuresebah’s Answer

Hi Kofi,
I'm glad you asked this because making connections can be tricky. The key is to find common ground, even if it's something small like a pair of shoes they have on. A nice compliment can kick things off, especially if you can relate it back to yourself. You might also ask about what they do outside of work, what they miss from college, or what they'd change if they could do college again. At first, try not to focus too much on the job. Instead, aim to build a real connection. Share a bit about yourself, plan to chat again, and keep asking thoughtful questions. As you get to know each other better, you can ask for advice and share more about your interests and what you're up to in school or work. It's a good idea to stay in touch regularly to keep the relationship genuine and active.
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Brittany’s Answer

I know this is cliche advice but just be yourself! If you are genuinely interested in the topic that will come through. Also, don't be afraid to ask "silly" questions. I remember a networking call I had with an intern where she asked me if I like watching crime-related shows (because I work in Forensics & Financial Crime). I was a random question but we had a great chat about shows we enjoyed and I still remember her a year later!
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Galen’s Answer

Kofi - many people want to help! We were all in your shoes at some point. Don't be afraid to reach out to people. Share your passions and be open about your curiosity. Most people are aware the goal of networking is to get a job or internship. That's why it's so important to be genuine and truly approach each interaction with passion, story and background! Talk about yourself and why you are interested on what others do!
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Sandra’s Answer

Make sure you come prepared for the conversation! When networking, it is clear if the person seeking advice has done their research and their homework. If you use your sense of curiosity and ask follow up questions to what they say, it will turn into an engaging conversation. Additionally, try and offer them something in return if the opportunity arises. Whether that be your thoughts or your time volunteered, there is always something that you can offer. Remember that the person on the other side is human too!
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Je' Mira’s Answer

The simplest way is to really show interest! Look for something you both share by talking. First, you're both at the same event for a similar reason. Be open to how others are different and what might be interesting about that.
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Diana’s Answer

Hi Kofi,

Many people are eager to chat and help, even if it's just for information. Try to really listen to them and ask about their hobbies, pets, or favorite travel spots. Jot these down so you can mention them in a thank you note later. This shows you care about more than just networking or job hunting. You can also ask about their work experience and see if they recommend others you should meet. Remember, everyone was once in your position and is usually happy to connect. Don't stress too much; focus on learning about the jobs and the people. In the end, it's the people who make a job or industry enjoyable.
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Roger’s Answer

Hi Kofi,
Try researching the company to find specific reasons why you want to work there. Look for any initiatives or causes they support that you also care about. This shows you're truly interested in the company, not just in getting a paycheck.
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Tony’s Answer

Start by focusing on learning. Don't worry about getting a job right away. Talk to people you know to learn about them and their work. Ask them about their daily routines, how they got to where they are, and any advice they might have for you.

Showing that you're eager to learn lets others know you're interested in the field without directly asking for a job.

As you grow your network, you'll build stronger connections. This will make it easier to ask about job opportunities later. Keep in touch with your contacts regularly so your initial effort doesn't go to waste.

Good luck!
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Deepti’s Answer

Professionals can immediately feel when someone is working an angle. You stand out by genuinely wanting to learn from them, not get something from them. Questions that work:
"What surprised you most about your career path?"
"What do you wish someone had told you starting out?"

Then actually listen and follow up on what they say. Don't just wait for your turn to talk.
The mindset shift: Go in trying to learn something, not get something. Don't ask for anything in the first conversation, just connect.
And your age is actually an advantage here. Genuine curiosity from a freshman is refreshing. You don't need to be polished, you just need to be real.
The professionals worth knowing can always tell who's authentic. Just be that person.
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John’s Answer

This might not sound like a helpful response, but the key is to actually be interested instead of trying to seem interested. People can easily tell the difference.

Something you could try is to ask about their path and story instead of about openings. How they got where they are, what surprised them, what they would do differently. Most people enjoy telling that story and rarely get asked. Then actually listen and follow up on what they said. Most conversations fall apart when someone is clearly just waiting for their turn to talk.

Do not ask for a job in a first conversation. If you leave without asking for anything, you have made a much better impression than the people who did, and you can follow up later once there is an actual relationship there.

Go in wanting to learn something. The rest tends to take care of itself.
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Mikal’s Answer

You never know where a connection might lead. It could become a lifelong friendship or a mentor relationship. Try to focus less on the job and more on shared interests to build a bond. When I go to a networking event, my only goal is to meet new people. Some I might not see again, while others could become business contacts.
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Meghna’s Answer

1. Ask thoughtful questions about their career path, lessons learned, and what they enjoy about their work.
2. Listen closely and build on what they say instead of jumping to your next question.
3. Avoid making the conversation immediately about openings or referrals.
4. Reference something specific they mentioned, which shows you were genuinely paying attention.
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