The best networking calls usually mix three things: a little bit of rapport, a few thoughtful questions about the person’s path or current work, and some targeted recruiting questions that genuinely help you make decisions.

You do not need to impress them with a perfect script. What matters more is showing that you did basic homework and that you are asking questions that could not be copied and pasted into every coffee chat.

A good mental model is to leave the call with better information, not with the feeling that you performed well. If you focus on learning, the conversation usually becomes much more natural. You may also find it helpful to read coffee chat questions with proven networking tips if you want a more structured way to practice this.

The best calls I had were when I asked about their actual day-to-day, not just ‘how do I get an offer.’

Do you know anything about the consultant's practice area already? That can give you much better questions than generic recruiting stuff.

Also worth asking why they picked that office or practice. Those answers are often more candid.

You do not need to fill every second. A little pause is fine in networking too.