Avoid These 5 Mistakes When NetworkingÂ

Avoid These 5 Mistakes When NetworkingWe all know how daunting networking can be. Its often the last thing we want to do going out to socialize when we could be on the couch with take-out and Netflix, having to sell ourselves in every conversation, having to get in front of the right people to make the right impression. But, it has to be done. And it should be done right. googletag.cmd.push(function() googletag.display(div-gpt-ad-1467144145037-0) ) Here are 5 common networking pitfalls and how to avoid them.1. Dont get caught with your pants downEven if you make a last-minute decision to attend, make sure youre prepared. Dont forget your geschftlicher umgang cards. Dont go up to anyone uninformed. Spend 15 minutes before you hit the anlass making a game planwho youd like to introduce yourself to, what specifically youd like to accomplish, etc. Do some research into the people and companies youre likely to run into this will make for better conversations and youll come across as inte lligent and on top of your game. Pick your marks and take accurate, appropriate shots.2. Dont be unprofessionalYou dont need tomake a special hair appointment or show up in a cocktail dress to a casual after-work event, but you also shouldnt dress like a slob. Go no lower than business casual, and when in doubt, take your cues from coworkers or other contacts you know are also attending.Once youre there, act like a professional human. Dont dismiss people just because they dont look important. Dont go around collecting business cards as if you were trick-or-treating. Dont lieyoull always get caught. And make sure to have your elevator pitch practiced and ready to go. Theres nothing worse than being asked what youre looking for and having to reply Uh. Um. Work and stuff?3. Dont be naveAct like youve been to a networking event before. Dont expect a job from every decision-maker you happen to shake hands with. And make sure not to ask for too much from everyone you meet. This is where a little strategic planning can really come in handy. Plan your big asks before you go. Once youve made them, try torelax, act normally, and enjoy yourself. People are just people, after all.4. Dont be selfishNobody likes a party hog. Dont be the kind of networker who talks only about herself, thinks only about her needs, barges into conversations uninvited, and otherwise monopolizes everything and everyone. That goes for the shrimp puffs, too.5. Dont forget to follow upThis is perhaps the most important. If youve made good contact with anyone, make sure to send a polite follow-up email the following day. Or even a phone call, depending on your level of connection And if anyone does you any favorsi.e. puts you in touch with someone or agrees to circulate your resumemake sure to send a gracious thank you ASAP.