You've arrived at your local business networking event with a stack of business cards, and can't wait to meet as many people as possible. Already, you've met a new contact, and exchanged names and business cards. Now what do you say?

Asking open-ended questions is a great way to get a lively conversation going. Questions that begin with "Who?" "How?" "Why?" and "Where?" are the best. By using them, you avoid the all-too-common "yes" or "no" answers that cause conversational roadblocks.

To get you started, here are 10 questions that work well in any business setting, but particularly with entrepreneurs.

• How did you get started in your business/industry?
• What has been the "tipping point" in your business/career?
• What has been your most effective marketing tactic?
• What is the latest book youve read? What's your assessment of it?
• What are the 3 most influential business/motivational books you've ever read?
• What do you enjoy doing when you're not working?
• What do you have on your plate for this week?
• How do you accomplish your goals? Which productivity tips have you found helpful?
• What trends do you see coming to your industry?
• How do you want your customers to remember/perceive your business?

These questions cover enough material to keep your conversation going for hours, as well as provide gateways to new topics of discussion. Happy networking!