Thirteen Networking Mistakes
Job-hunting Etiquette
by Dan Woog, Monster Contributing Writer
You wouldn't wear jeans to a job interview, but do you pay as much attention to job-hunting etiquette when networking? If you approach potential contacts in an offhand way, you may put them off entirely. Learn what the most common networking mistakes are so you don't have to make them.
1.) Waiting
Many people start networking only after they've lost their jobs. Effective networking means
creating contacts and relationships while you're still employed.
2.) Being Clueless
If you're heading to a networking event, make sure you know why you're going. Do you want a
job? If so, are you seeking something specific, or will anything do? Are you looking for contacts
or a mentor to provide guidance? As soon as someone starts talking with you, you have to hold up
your end of the conversation. If you don't know what you want, you can't do that.
3.) Being Unprepared
Thinking you know what you want is not the same as knowing it. Treat networking the same way
you would an appearance at Carnegie Hall. Practice your pitch as well as your answers to questions
about your career goals that might arise.
4.) Forgetting Business Cards
There is nothing more embarrassing than establishing a good relationship with someone,
extracting a pledge of help and then searching around for a cocktail napkin to write on. While
you're at it, spend a few extra bucks to print professional-looking cards on good-quality
paper.
5.) Using a Silly-Sounding E-mail Name
Sure, your friends know you as "SexyMama4U" or "TimeForHemp," but when looking for
work, stick to a serious email address, such as your real name.
6.) Being Pompous
While you're networking, you need to listen to what everyone else is saying. People
help by offering advice. They are not interested in hearing how much you already know.
7.) Monopolizing Someone's Time
At a networking event, everyone wants to mingle. And if you network over the phone or by
e-mail, understand that the person you speak with has a life that extends beyond you.
8.) Dressing Down
Look sharp at networking events. Mind your manners, shake hands firmly, stand up straight,
make eye contact and show respect in any way you can. A networking event can be a dress rehearsal
for a job interview, but no one will help you get your foot in the door if you give the impression
that you'll slouch through it once it's open.
9.) Being a Wallflower
Men and women with contacts and power meet many people; they remember only those who stand
out from the crowd. Be assertive, and act like a leader. But don't go overboard. You want to convey
self-assurance, not obnoxiousness.
10.) Being Passive
If someone says, "Sorry, we don't have anything right now," take a minute or two to ask
follow-up questions: "Well, what's the outlook for future possibilities? Do you know anyone else in
the industry who might have something? Any thoughts on what my next step should be?" Persistence
shows true interest on your part and may help the person you're networking with come up with ideas
he might otherwise overlook.
11.) Lying
It's tempting to say "So-and-So gave me your name, and told me to call." It might even get
you a meeting. But eventually Such-and-Such will learn that So-and-So did not tell you to call. And
you'll have burned not one, but two bridges.
12.) Treating Your Networking Relationships as Short-Term Flings
No one likes to be used. Follow up every conversation with a thank-you note, e-mail or call.
Let your contact know whether his suggestions panned out or not. When your job search ends -- for
whatever reason -- inform the person who has helped you. You may think your networking is over, but
your paths may cross again.
13.) Forgetting Where You Came From
Anyone who has ever networked, whether successfully or not, owes an obligation to all those
who will network in the future. Return the favor and help someone else.
