Too many people overthink the "working the room" concept and are hesitant to begin a conversation because they don't have something witty to say! Just remember that a majority of the other people in the room are as reluctant to be there and start a conversation as you are. The "meaty" part of a conversation will come later but you never get to the entree if you are still dealing with your salad! Forget all of the hogwash about having an opening line of substance and just do what you are at the event to do, meet people! I have found over the years that some very simple greetings/questions can lead to the conversation of substance that you are seeking.
"Where is your hometown" or "Where are you originally from" are great conversation starters for several reasons. Where someone is from in the state, country or world can tell you a great deal about the person and spur other questions. It also is a great way for you to connect yourself to them through another person that you both might know from the area.
"How is your lunch" or "This is great punch" is another great way to initiate a conversation. Most people are just waiting for someone else to make the first move and once the ice is broken the water(conversation) begins flowing!
Watch a future Networking Man blog for the "exit strategy". If your purpose is to network and meet as many individuals as possible then you can't get stuck the entire time talking about the flying patterns of canadian geese!
See you soon and always remember. Everyone is connected to someone and you never know when that can help you or hurt you!
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