Networking isn't easy. It even has the word "work" built right in. You can "work" smarter at networking by avoiding these 7 mistakes.
1. You don't build the relationship.
I have a ridiculous stack of business cards on my desk as I type this. How many do you have piled up? If you meet someone and never follow up you might as well have never met them at all. At a minimum take the time to connect with them on social media.
2. You're not consistent
When people do follow up on a new connection, that first contact often comes soon after the initial meeting. And the second contact never comes at all. Relationships aren’t built once; they’re re-built constantly over time.
3. You don't show your gratitude.
When one of your contacts connects you with someone else, make sure you thank them. If that connection led to more money for you take the time to send them a small gift.
4. You take without giving.
Sometimes people network as a way to give back to a community that helped them in the past. But most people who attend networking events go with an idea of what they hope the people they meet might do for them. That’s the wrong attitude. Networking is like any other aspect of business: you have to give before you can expect to get.
5. You focus on the result, not the relationship.
People like people (for the most part). Focus on building a relationship with the person, not on what you can get from them.
6. You skip the personal branding.
The person you just met knows lots of people. And they're going to meet lots more. You need to stand out. Invest in your website. Put an effort into your profile photos and your branding. Make sure that people can see you, remember you and understand that knowing you brings value into their lives.
7. You don't press the flesh.
Social media makes it easier to keep track of the people we've met. But wishing someone a "Happy Birthday" on Facebook isn't going to change your career. Find ways to connect in person. It doesn't have to be a 1-on-1 coffee or lunch. You can look for networking events and conferences and ask if they'll be going.
Read more about all this from Entrepeneur here.
