By many studies, networking is noted as the #1 way people find new jobs and advance their career. Levo’s Personal Branding Blog notes multiple strategies for effective networking, highlighting two:
1) Make the other person talk more than you and
2) make effective requests for action.

Many people believe that the goal of networking is to let as many people as possible know who you are and what you’re looking for. While this can provide some advantage, like blasting out standard resumes to many companies, you will never get the same response as targeted well-built relationships. This is particularly evidenced by the aforementioned strategy of having the other person speak. When others speak more it typically builds rapport faster and ensures you’re not dominating the conversation (which everyone hates!). Both of these strategies can be implemented by asking questions.

What kinds of questions can you ask? Well, early in the conversation, if you were introduced, you can ask questions about the person that introduced you (eg. “How long have you known Mary?”). If you weren’t introduced, rely on open-ended situational questions (eg. “What are you hoping to get out of this conference?”). Either way, you want to stay away from questions that allow only “yes” or “no” answers.
Once you really feel you’ve formed a bond with the individual, questions can help with your second strategy. Asking something like “Is there someone in your company with that expertise that you could introduce me to?” can really set you up to accomplish your objectives.

Questions are the meat of making connections – so get out there and get asking!
This blog was adapted from Levo’s Personal Branding Blog and can be found here: http://www.levo.com/articles/career-advice/better-questions-equal-better-networking-results