Everyone should be ready to discuss current events when networking. You should be able to show your knowledge and understanding of how those events impact the business sector you work in.
One caveat is to know that each person has their own opinion. You should strive to keep your talking points to the facts about a current event and your own business sector. That would be helped by accessing objective media. This is more difficult these days, but can still be done. One media outlet to try is The Christian Science Monitor which has a reputation for fairness in reporting. There are also some NGO and government websites that have a reputation for fairness, but be careful to recognize overt and subtle attempts at politicizing a current event rather than reporting based on facts.
In my grandfather's time, he would avoid all discussion of politics, religion and sex to maintain his reputation as a gentlemen. He also listened to people more than he spoke, and was able to gain a better world view. I take his practice as just one way to improve myself as a business networker.
How would you handle current events in discussion?
