Speed Networking at Work: How to Run It (With 12 Prompts)

Speed networking turns a room of strangers into a room of contacts in 30 minutes. People pair up for short timed conversations around a prompt, then rotate to a new partner. It's structured enough that nobody is left standing alone, and fast enough that nobody gets stuck.

How to run speed networking

1. Set up two rows of chairs facing each other, or ask people to stand in two lines.
2. Give each pair a prompt to discuss.
3. After 2 to 3 minutes, ring a bell. One row moves one seat along.
4. Change the prompt every few rounds to keep conversations fresh.
5. Run 8 to 12 rounds, then bring everyone back together.

12 speed networking prompts

1. What are you working on that you're most excited about?
2. What's the best piece of advice you've had in your career?
3. What does a good week at work look like for you?
4. What's a skill you'd like to learn this year?
5. What's a problem you're trying to solve right now?
6. Who has had the biggest influence on how you work?
7. What's something about your role people would be surprised by?
8. What did you do before your current job?
9. What's one thing that slows you down that someone here could help with?
10. What's a recent win you're proud of?
11. What's a book or podcast you'd recommend?
12. How could our teams work better together?

Tips for a great session

• Use a loud signal, such as a bell or music, to mark each rotation.
• Give prompts on cards so nobody has to remember them.
• Mix departments deliberately so people meet colleagues they'd never normally talk to.
• Finish by asking everyone to name one person they'll follow up with.

Remote speed networking

1. Use random breakout rooms of two people for three minutes each.
2. Post the prompt in the main chat before each round.
3. Run six to eight rounds, then return to the main room for a quick round-up.

Need better prompts? The Team Conversation Deck is a ready-made set of conversation cards for teams, from light openers to the conversations that build real trust. Hand one card to each pair.

See the Deck

Speed networking FAQs

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