The 7 Dos and Don'ts of Networking

Networking is a necessary evil for most career professionals. We know it's something we must engage in, continually improve upon and learn to leverage; however, we may find it tedious. There are so many benefits to connecting with new people, and while it may be difficult to measure its effectiveness, we know there is value.

Silicon-Valley Entrepreneur Sophie-Charlotte Maotti is a networking expert. In the span of her career, she’s attended numerous business events and spoken to large groups about the impact and efficacy of making new connections in an informal setting. In a Fast Company article, she states that, “Networking is an art, not a science, and it’s hard to measure—or even define—its effectiveness.” Moatti and I seem to share this sentiment.

While I may not have spoken on the subject of networking in as many formal settings as Maotti, I have done my fair share of “elbow rubbing” and, as a result, have learned a few “Dos and Don’ts” that I try to keep in mind when faced with the opportunity to flex my guns. 

#1 - Food and Drink.

Don't...

Go on an empty stomach.

Do...

Casually have a drink in your hand, have some appetizers and eat a meal (if it's served).

#2 - Badge Hunting.

Don't...

Be a badge vulture.

It’s extremely obvious when you see someone walking around an event looking down at badges as opposed to attempting to make eye contact.

Do...

Be aware of who you're talking to.

It's okay to look at someone's name tag if you've forgotten their name after introduction; however, you never know what connection will lead to another introduction. There's value in every interaction.

#3 - Co-Workers.

Don't...

Huddle with your co-workers chatting exclusively about what happened at the office that day.

The whole purpose is to meet new people. I get it... It's comfortable to chat with your co-workers. You can avoid awkwardness, socialize, and catch up in a fun environment; however, you came to meet people! The only way that will happen is if you leave the safety of what and who you know and spread your wings!

Do...

Acknowledge your co-workers!

If you pass by your co-workers during an event, make sure to say hi! If they're alone, introduce them into the conversation you're having and make them feel welcome. New folks you're talking to can sense whether or not you have a good relationship. So, use every opportunity to be an ambassador for your company’s brand and internal culture.

#4 - Agenda.

Don't...

Have one!

In high-paced business environments, you’re likely to be surrounded by individuals with ambitious inclinations. We’ve been trained to stay "on task" and focused on an "end goal." In this case, it’s actually about abandoning an agenda and staying open to the possibilities existing in the universe! It's not about getting “X” number of business cards, or seeking out the highest-ranking executive you can find.

Do...

Stay open to possibilities.

Having authentic and memorable conversations is a great overarching objective. If you can walk away from the night having learned something (or many things) about a person or their company, then you've "done your job."

#5 - Can I Get Your Digits?

Don't...

Blindly peddle for business cards.

Don't just go around doling out your cards like a blackjack dealer in Vegas... If there isn't a natural lead in or follow up from the conversation, then don't ask people for their cards, nor offer yours.

Do...

Mention a follow up!

If you've had a good conversation and there's a reason for follow up, feel free and confident to ask them for their cards, and to give one of yours in return. Also, you shouldn't overly stress out about this one... But, if I’m to speak from experience, conversations tend to blend together after the event and you'll want to remember to connect with people once it's done!

#6 - Showing Up.

Don't...

Just go to get it over with.

In networking, just like anything else in life, the approach is crucial. If you're merely going through the motions to get the night over with, then you're not embracing the opportunity that is in front of you! People can pick up on genuine enthusiasm or that which is contrived.

Do...

Bring your "A" Game!

It's never easy. Believe me. But do the best you can to come from a place of genuine enthusiasm. Don't get overburdened with pressure and enjoy the experience.

#7 - Follow-up and Follow-Through.

Don't...

Leave the conversations there!

Don't leave the event and forget all about everything that you just created. 

Do...

Keep them going!

If you had a great conversation and have their contact info, connect on LinkedIn, send them an email. Keep the relationship alive.

Now, get out there and connect! You never know where it could lead. At the very least, it will help you to become more comfortable in interacting with strangers and making yourself vulnerable.

Also, If you implement any of my “Dos” or discontinue any of my “Don’ts,” please share! I’d love your feedback. If you want to learn more about me, check out this post where I share some more of my philosophies on Business Development.