Networking is one of the best ways to land a job right now, but going about it the wrong way can do more harm than good for your reputation and potential future opportunities.
That’s why Business Insider asked two etiquette experts to share the mistakes that should be avoided while networking.
Here’s what they said.
Collecting contacts instead of cultivating connections
Pamela Eyring, owner of The Protocol School of Washington, which teaches business and professional etiquette, told Business Insider that networking has changed a lot over the years.
Although collecting business cards was once seen as important, now it’s all about building slow, genuine connections with others.
To do this, Eyring said it’s helpful to find things you have in common, which makes the conversation feel genuine rather than transactional.
For example, connect over being alums from the same college, having both traveled to the conference from the Midwest, or even shared hobbies. These things can make you more memorable later, too.
Interrupting conversations already happening
When it comes to networking, first impressions are incredibly important. That’s why you should never interrupt a conversation that’s already in progress.
Instead, she suggests looking for an open circle and making direct eye contact with one person.
Catching one person’s attention creates space to ask permission to join the conversation, which comes off much warmer than pushing in.
Huddling with people you already know
Stayce Wagner, business etiquette consultant and founder of Spencer Crane Etiquette, told BI that one of the biggest mistakes people make at networking events is sticking with colleagues or friends they already know.
“It’s a mistake because you’re missing the purpose of networking — you’re not expanding your network, you’re not connecting with new people,” she said. “It also makes you seem unapproachable.”
Instead, Wagner recommends checking in with colleagues only when you feel anxious or there’s a lull in conversation. This can help you preserve that sense of security without missing out on what you came to do — meet new people.
Avoiding small talk
Despite how you may feel about small talk, it’s an important part of networking and creating inclusive conversations. That’s why it’s good to come prepared with topics to talk about.
Eyring said some good examples include, “‘Is this your first time at this conference?’ or ‘This is my first time at this event, can you tell me what to expect?'”
She added that it’s important to invite others into the conversation and that small talk naturally offers opportunities to share more about yourself and your work.
Taking your name tag off early
Most people don’t love wearing name tags or lanyards, but they serve an important purpose beyond an initial introduction. According to Wagner, name tags help you seem approachable and make it easier for new contacts to remember your name.
“Everyone’s learning lots of names, meeting lots of people. So keeping that name tag on keeps you approachable and it helps other people be comfortable around you.”
Although it may be tempting to take it off after initial introductions, it’s important to keep your name tag on until you leave the event.
Using the food and beverage table as a crutch
Hovering around the refreshments and snacks can feel comforting to some, but Wagner said it can also become a crutch and might look unprofessional.
“Avoid treating the food and beverage table as the main event,” she told BI. “If you can avoid it, don’t go to the event hungry.”
Not preparing an adequate setup for virtual networking
Networking online is important in the digital world. Although many of the same rules apply, one of the most overlooked missteps is the lack of an appropriate camera setup and background.
Eyring said that even if you’re taking a call in your car, there are ways to make your setup look more professional.
For example, she said, check what’s appearing in the background of your video call before you join it to make sure it’s appropriate.
Forgetting to send a thank-you note
Networking is about building connections, helping one another, and strengthening relationships. That’s why Wagner said sending a thank-you note after meeting someone who helped you at a networking event is non-negotiable.
Depending on your industry norms, she said this can come in the form of an email, direct message, or handwritten note.
Of course, sometimes people get busy and this step can slip their minds. However, Wagner said, “A late thank you is much, much better than not thanking someone.”
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