How to Ace the First 5 Minutes of a Networking Call

In a virtual networking call, those first five minutes can make or break the rest of your conversation. In a 30-minute call, setting the right tone upfront helps you stand out, build rapport, and keep the conversation engaging. So how do you make that first impression count?

Let’s look at a thoughtful approach to those first five minutes that makes your conversation flow naturally and memorably.

1. Start with a Friendly Greeting that Feels Personal

A warm greeting creates an inviting atmosphere, which is even more important when meeting someone for the first time virtually. It sets the stage for a pleasant conversation and signals your interest in the person beyond just their professional experience. Try something like:

"Hi [Name], it’s great to meet you! How’s your day going so far?"

By using their name and asking how their day is going, you’re acknowledging them as an individual rather than just another networking connection. It’s a small step, but it helps humanize the conversation in a virtual environment.

Follow this up with a quick personal intro about yourself. Mention your background briefly, but keep it light:

"I’m [Your Name], and I work in [Your Industry/Position]. I’ve been really excited about this opportunity to connect, especially because I’ve heard so much about your work in [their industry/role]."

This gives them a cue about why you’re interested, making the conversation feel more intentional and less transactional.

2. Show Genuine Curiosity Right Away

In a first-time networking call, showing that you’re genuinely curious about them can set you apart. People enjoy sharing their journey when they feel someone is truly interested. Steer away from yes/no questions, and ask something that lets them expand naturally:

"What got you interested in working in [their industry/role]?"or"I noticed you’ve been involved in [specific project or company]. What’s been the most exciting part of that for you?"

These questions show that you’ve done a bit of homework, which reflects well on you, but they’re also open-ended, giving your contact the chance to share their story in a way that’s personal to them. It’s a conversation starter that goes beyond the surface.

3. Create Connection by Finding Common Ground

As you’re meeting someone for the first time, it’s key to find threads of commonality early on. Whether it's shared professional challenges, a mutual interest in a certain area, or even the current state of the industry, finding common ground helps to break down initial barriers. Try a smooth transition with questions like:

"I’m always curious about how others in [industry/role] are handling [current challenge]. How have you been approaching that lately?"or"What’s something in your work right now that you’re really passionate about?"

This helps you move from light small talk to more meaningful topics without it feeling like an abrupt switch. Plus, common ground is the foundation for a stronger, ongoing professional relationship.

4. Light Small Talk: Don’t Dismiss the Weather Just Yet

While jumping into professional questions too early can feel rushed, starting with only small talk about the weather or holidays may not establish a strong connection either. However, weaving in light small talk at the right moment can add a personal touch. For example:

"I see you’re based in [their city], how’s the weather over there this time of year? I’m currently in [your city], and it’s been [weather conditions]."

This is especially helpful when there’s a time zone difference or you’re meeting someone from another region. It can help make the virtual call feel a little more grounded in a shared reality.

5. Offer Sincere Compliments to Build Rapport

A well-placed compliment can turn the conversation from formal to friendly. If you notice something you admire, mention it—but keep it genuine and relevant to the conversation. A thoughtful compliment can be a great icebreaker, especially when you’re meeting someone for the first time:

"I love how organized your background looks on Zoom. It adds a nice touch to the meeting environment."or"I’ve been following [a project or achievement of theirs] – it’s really impressive what you’ve been able to accomplish."

Compliments, when offered authentically, can help lighten the mood and open up more space for personal connection. However, it’s important to avoid sounding overly flattering or insincere, as this can have the opposite effect.

Whether it’s about the weather or the latest industry trends, use small talk strategically to create a natural flow that eases both you and your contact into a productive conversation. It’s your first chance to make a lasting impression—so make it count!