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Every professional has heard over and over again how important networking is and how much it can do for your career or your business. This is absolutely true, but many people struggle to see the benefit for themselves. This is not because networking is actually not that important; rather, it is because these people are not networking effectively. By pinpointing the issues and changing strategy accordingly, you can turn fruitless endeavors into productive networking that you can really benefit from. 1.Being unprepared. Many people go into a networking situation without having thought about what their objectives are and what they want to convey to others. Make sure that you have a solid, concise way to express who you are and what you do, and prepare talking points to make sure you are staying on track with your goals throughout the event. 2.Networking only periodically or when you really need something. Often, people find themselves in need of a job or new contacts for one reason or another, and turn to networking to find what they are looking for. This is ineffective, because it does not support lasting relationships. Instead, you should constantly be networking. Continuously seek connections and tend to the relationships you have. The National Association of Distinguished Professionals, for example, provides a network of over 150,000 professionals and resources to facilitate this regular interaction. 3.Making it all about you. Yes, you have lots of great ideas and important goals, but so does everybody else in the room. Listen and take an interest in what the other people in the room have to say. Ask people questions to make them feel valued. If you do not monopolize the conversation, you will learn something, and they will be more inclined to further develop the relationship. 4.Being unprofessional. Although it may seem appropriate, don't dress down. In general, if you wouldn't wear it with a client or to a job interview, do not wear it when networking. Make sure you are using a serious email address. Do not show up "fashionably late." Don't forget your manners, make eye contact, shake hands firmly, and demonstrate respect in order to leave a good impression. 5.Focusing your entire effort online. We have excellent tools for networking online, such as Twitter, LinkedIn and forums like one provided by NADP, but with their availability we often forget about networking in real life. Face-to-face interaction builds the most valuable relationships, so meet up with people in person. 6.Taking without giving. Networking is about building mutually beneficial relationships and, as such, must be a two way street. Don't be needy. Whatever you hope to get out of networking, be it a job or new customers, people will be significantly more likely to give it to you if you are providing value. Offer people help or share knowledge rather than constantly asking for favors. 7.Failing to follow up. People often leave a conference or networking event with stacks of business cards and promises to get in touch. If you don't follow up with the people with whom you saw a budding connection, they will forget about you, and no lasting relationship with form. As they continue to develop these relationships, many people forget about the importance of saying thank you. If someone takes the time to meet with you, share their knowledge, do you a favor, or help you in any other way, always send them a quick note expressing your gratitude. The courtesy will be appreciated, and you will leave a positive impression. Networking is a critical catalyst of personal and professional growth, but if you are making these mistakes, you will find yourself wasting your time. Correct issues like these and put in an earnest effort and subsequently you will reap the rewards. The National Association of Distinguished Professionals is one of the largest online networking organizations for business professionals. NADP has over 150,000 members and provides resources such as business and educational services and exclusive discounts to enhance your career.
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