The Top 5 Networking Blunders

While many benefit from the power of networking daily, others seem to be spinning their wheels. My advice? Don’t let the following five blunders sabotage your networking efforts.

Not Following Up

You’re at a networking event. You’ve just met John, who sells widgets. Being an astute networker, you tell John that you know someone who needs widgets and ask for John’s card. The next day, John does not hear from you. Ditto the day after that. A few weeks later, you bump into John at a networking event. Your weak apology includes how busy you are.

This blunder is first for a reason: it is the most common networking mistake. If you say you’re going to contact someone and don’t, you are reverse networking. Your networking is quite likely doing more harm than good.

You can easily skyrocket your regard in the business community by eliminating this bad habit. You’ll outshine most networkers by being the person who really does follow up - on every contact, every time.

Being Boring

When you’re networking, you’re really selling yourself. Sales experts agree that the number one reason why people buy is because they like the salesperson - you. The same goes for sending referrals your way.

The best way to be interesting is to have a unique point of view. If you don’t have an opinion on most of today’s topics, how can anyone remember their conversation with you? There’s nothing to attach the memory to.

Instead, be full of ideas and opinions and share them with those that you meet. You’ll get others’ creative juices flowing. More importantly, you’ll be likable and memorable, causing people to feel just great about doing business with you.

Forgetting the 3-Feet Rule

While networking, realize that anyone that comes within three feet of you is eligible for permanent entry into your network. If you’re shy about approaching others, you’re almost certainly not meeting your next important business contact.

The more people you meet, the more contacts you gain – contacts that can later be called on for help. If you’ve been networking for awhile and don’t have plenty of people you could call upon for help – help with finding employees, help finding a good accountant, whatever - then it may be time to be more sociable at the next networking event you attend.

Failing to Build Relationships

Now that you’re meeting and greeting plenty of people, be sure to develop a quality relationship with them.

Many networkers miss the important point that strong relationships, not loose acquaintances, are what drive our successes. Once you have a relationship with someone, they will feel comfortable referring you to others and will look for opportunities to do so. Someone you’ve glad-handed a business card to feels no such motivation - so upgrade them. Here’s how:
Become a client – buy someone’s product or service. This is the fastest known method for establishing a new relationship.
Help someone get business – also guaranteed to work.
Meet with someone outside a networking event – this will go a long way toward solidifying your new relationship.
By concentrating on relationship building, you ensure that the network necessary for your success gets created.

Neglecting Your Network

Yes, you have a network. It includes virtually everyone you know. Long gone is the “every man / woman for themselves” notion of business. You’ll need a strong network of friends and business associates if you’re to succeed. And like most things of value, your network does require some maintenance.

You’ve worked hard to develop your network, so don’t abandon it. Stay in touch with your contacts. Vow to never eat alone. By doing so, you’ll keep your connections active, and keep the referrals coming.