What is it when you really network? And what to avoid? To prepare you properly, we have listed 13 of the most common mistakes.
Contents
Waiting
Many people only start networking after they’ve gotten rid of the job. However, networking effectively involves creating contacts and building relationships while you are still employed.
Not knowing what you want
Be sure to always be well prepared before going on a networking meeting. Are you looking for a new job? If so, are you looking for something specific, or are you open to most things? Do you want a mentor or contacts who can give you advice? You have to handle your part of the conversation as soon as someone starts talking to you – and if you don’t know what you want, it’s hard.
Being unprepared
Thinking about what you want is not the same as actually knowing. Therefore, prepare yourself just as you would for a performance; Practice your pitch and be prepared with answers to questions about your career and your goals.
To forget your business cards
Having to find a napkin to jot down your contact information is rarely a good ending to a rewarding conversation. Therefore, be sure to always carry your business card with you when networking.
Having an inappropriate email address
You may still be using old email addresses, but when it comes to work you have to change to a more serious one – your real name in other words.
Having a bad attitude
It is important to listen when you are networking. You help others when giving tips and advice, not when talking about themselves and how much you already can.
To take up too much of someone’s time
It’s meant to mingle at an event, so don’t stop the one you’re talking to for too long. The same goes for talking over the phone or email – don’t waste anyone’s time.
To dress you up
Dress appropriately for the events you are going to attend. Think about your behavior, have a firm handshake, stand straight, have eye contact and show respect. You never know who you can meet at an event and therefore it is important to always make a good impression.
To blend in with the crowd
We meet many new people in everyday life, and so you usually only remember those who stand out. Be straight forward and determined without it being too much. You want to appear confident, not complacent.
Being passive
If someone says “Sorry, we have no vacancies right now,” take a minute or two to ask some follow-up questions: “What does it look like in the future? Do you know anyone else in the industry who may know something? What do you think would be a good step for me in my career? ”. You show a genuine interest if you do not give up immediately.
To lie
It might be tempting to say “It-and-it gave me your contact information and said I would call”. And sure, it can generate in a meeting. But everyone involved will eventually get the fact that it-and-it didn’t even ask you to call. Then you have not only burned one, but two, bridges.
To treat your job relationships as short flirts
No one wants to be exploited. Therefore, always thank you for meetings and calls and let your contact know if his tips led to something. Keep in touch even when you’ve got a job and don’t let it run out in the sand. You never know when you might run into each other again.
To forget where you come from
Everyone who networks, whether successful or not, has an obligation to everyone who will network in the future. Repay the service and help someone else when you can.
