Better than “What do you do?”

Six ways to open a conversation without making the room feel like a networking event.

A good question gives someone room to be more than a job title. It should be easy to answer lightly—and interesting enough to stay with if the conversation goes there.

At the beginning

“What has been keeping your attention lately?” works at dinner, after an event, or while waiting for coffee. It leaves room for work, a book, a trip, or something completely unexpected.

For someone who makes things

Ask, “What part of your work would people be surprised by?” Then listen for a detail you can follow. A real follow-up is usually more interesting than a prepared second question.

For the table

Try “What is one place you keep going back to?” or “What have you changed your mind about recently?” Let anyone pass. A dinner party is not a panel, and not every guest needs to perform.

For the person you already know

“What would you like more time for?” can open a different conversation from the usual update. Keep it an invitation rather than a request for a life plan.

Before you part

If a connection feels worth continuing, be specific: “Can I send you the exhibition we were talking about?” Ask before making an introduction or passing along contact information.

The question we come back to: “What is something good you found recently?” It is why this part of DOMA exists.