8 Things to NOT Do When Networking
Building a professional network is an essential part of career growth. It helps you connect with people in your industry, learn new skills, and discover new opportunities. However, it’s not always easy to build a strong professional network, and there are some common mistakes that people make when trying to do so. Here are some things to NOT do when networking.
1. Don't be self-centered.
One of the biggest mistakes people make when building a professional network is focusing too much on getting value for themselves. They approach networking thinking "what can I get out of this?" instead of "what can I offer?" While it's important to have objectives in mind when networking, it's equally important to think about what you can bring to the table. By being generous with your time, skills, knowledge, and resources, you're more likely to build meaningful and productive relationships with your network connections.
2. Don't be too aggressive.
When networking, try to avoid being too aggressive. It’s a mistake to bombard your network connections with requests for favors, introductions, or job referrals without taking the time to build the relationship first. This can be a major turn-off for many people and can damage your reputation in the long run. Instead, space out your outreach, take the time to get to know your network connections, and offer them value before making any requests.
3. Don't forget to follow up.
The flipside of being too aggressive, is being too passive. One thing networkers want to avoid is failing to follow up. Don’t be someone who attends events, meets new people, exchanges business cards, and then never bothers to follow up with your new connections afterward. This can be a huge missed opportunity, since follow-up is where the real magic of networking happens. Make sure to reach out to your new connections within a few days of meeting them, even if it's just to say hello and thank them for their time.
4. Don't ignore the power of social media.
In today's digital age, social media is an essential tool for networking. However, many people still underestimate its power and fail to leverage it effectively. Social media platforms like LinkedIn, Twitter, and Facebook can help you connect with people in your industry, stay up to date on industry trends, and showcase your skills and expertise. Make sure to use social media to your advantage by regularly sharing valuable content, engaging with your network connections, and building your personal brand online.
5. Don't be too formal.
While it's important to maintain a level of professionalism when networking, it's also important to be approachable and personable. People are more likely to remember and connect with someone who they feel comfortable around, so don't be afraid to let your personality shine through. This doesn't mean you should be overly casual or unprofessional, but rather find a balance between being professional and being sociable and friendly.
6. Don't underestimate the value of face-to-face.
Nothing beats face-to-face interactions when it comes to building strong relationships. Industry events, conferences, and meetups are a great way to network with people in your industry. Of course, these opportunities can be infrequent, and many of us prefer to use digital means to communicate. When doing so, use email and DMs sparingly, as they tend to be dry and impersonal. When you can’t meet in person, it’s best to have a video call – and since that’s often not a good option either, send a video message to recreate that face-to-face intimacy.
7. Don't be afraid to ask for help.
Everyone needs help from time to time, and reaching out to your network connections for assistance or advice is perfectly acceptable. Don’t be afraid to do this, but approach it with tact and respect. Be clear and specific about what you need help with, and make sure to express your gratitude for their support. Remember, networking is a two-way street, and by asking for help, you're also opening the door to reciprocate in the future.
8. Don't forget to say thank you.
Expressing gratitude is an important part of building strong relationships, and networking is no exception. When someone goes out of their way to help you, whether it's by making an introduction or providing advice, make sure to say thank you. A simple thank you note or email can go a long way toward building a lasting and meaningful relationship with your network connections.
Building a professional network is possibly the most valuable investment you’ll make in your career. By avoiding common pitfalls and following these tips, you can enhance your networking efforts and create meaningful connections that will benefit you greatly in the long run. Remember to approach networking with a mindset of generosity and reciprocity, be patient in building relationships, and take advantage of both online and offline opportunities. By doing so, you'll be well on your way to building a robust and supportive professional network that can open doors to new opportunities, foster growth, and propel your career forward. Happy networking!
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