What are the most common networking mistakes and how can you avoid them?

2 Being too self-centered

Another common networking mistake is being too self-centered and focusing only on your own needs, goals, and agenda. Networking is not a one-way street, where you expect others to help you without offering anything in return. Networking is a mutual exchange of value, where you seek to understand, support, and add value to the other person. To avoid being too self-centered, you need to listen actively, ask open-ended questions, show genuine interest, and offer your help, advice, or referrals when appropriate.

3 Not being prepared

A third common networking mistake is not being prepared for the networking events, meetings, or conversations you attend or initiate. Networking is not something you can do on the fly, without any research, planning, or strategy. Networking requires preparation, where you identify your purpose, goals, and target audience, where you research the background, interests, and needs of the people you want to connect with, and where you craft your introduction, pitch, and value proposition. To avoid being unprepared, you need to do your homework, practice your communication skills, and have a clear action plan.

4 Burning bridges

A fourth common networking mistake is burning bridges with the people you network with. This can happen when you act unprofessionally, disrespectfully, or dishonestly, when you fail to deliver on your promises or commitments, when you ghost or ignore your contacts, or when you badmouth or criticize them behind their backs. Burning bridges can ruin your reputation, trust, and credibility, and cost you valuable opportunities and referrals. To avoid burning bridges, you need to act with integrity, respect, and courtesy, keep your word, follow through, and maintain positive and constructive relationships.

5 Not diversifying

A fifth common networking mistake is not diversifying your network and sticking to the same people, groups, or platforms. Networking is not only about strengthening your existing connections, but also about expanding your horizons and reaching out to new and diverse people, who can offer you different perspectives, insights, and opportunities. Networking is also about being flexible and adaptable, and using various channels and methods to connect with others, such as online platforms, social media, events, webinars, podcasts, etc. To avoid being too narrow in your networking, you need to be curious, open-minded, and proactive, and seek to connect with people from different backgrounds, industries, and roles.

6 Not following up on opportunities

A sixth common networking mistake is not following up on the opportunities that arise from your networking efforts. Networking is not a one-time activity, but a continuous process, where you need to nurture and grow your relationships, and act on the leads, referrals, or introductions you receive. Networking is also about being responsive, timely, and accountable, and showing your gratitude, enthusiasm, and professionalism. To avoid missing out on opportunities, you need to follow up promptly, communicate clearly, and deliver value.