How can you avoid networking mistakes when building professional relationships?

1. Establecer objetivos claros: Antes de comenzar a hacer networking, es importante tener claridad sobre lo que se quiere lograr. Establecer metas específicas, como encontrar un mentor, obtener nuevas oportunidades laborales o ampliar la red de contactos, ayudará a enfocar los esfuerzos y evitar errores innecesarios. 2. Investigar y prepararse: Antes de asistir a eventos de networking o establecer contacto con profesionales, es importante investigar y conocer a las personas y organizaciones relevantes. Esto permitirá tener conversaciones más significativas y demostrar interés genuino en los demás. 3. Ser auténtico y genuino: En lugar de tratar de impresionar a los demás, es importante ser uno mismo y mostrar autenticidad.

In my experience the biggest turn off is when someone tries to network but it is only about them! There is no space for a genuine dialogue. It's very important to make sure the networking is a two way street!

Discovering purpose is about aligning your life with what brings you joy, fulfillment, and a sense of meaning. Your purpose may change and evolve as you grow and gain new experiences, so stay open to the journey of self-discovery. While, finding out purpose is a ling drawn and time tested process, big challenge is seen while aligning life to the True North. Here, your vision sets the direction, goals provide the roadmap, values guide your choices, and principles ensure ethical alignment on your journey towards knowing and living your purpose. So, stitch those well together, so that they create a cohesive and purposeful life path.

Es imprescindible antes de ir a un networking tener el objetivo claro y bien definido, lo que contribuirá a que elaboremos las estrategias de comunicación adecuadas; pues podríamos caer en el error de que el mensaje no impactara a los asistentes y que la retroalimentación no resulte la esperada.

Bevor man auf eine Netzwerk Veranstaltung geht, sollte man sich fragen, was man auf der Veranstaltung erreichen und wen man treffen will. Es ist sehr hilfreich, sich Ziele zu setzen (zum Beispiel mindestens 3 neue Menschen kennenlernen), über den eigenen Schatten zu springen und selber neue Menschen anzusprechen! Oder sich vorstellen zu lassen von jemanden, der schon Menschen, die man auf dieser Veranstaltung treffen möchte, kennt.

It's always more important to be interested than interesting. Think of conversations like a tennis game. There is a cadence and rhythm to the volley. If one person holds onto the ball too long, the other person will eventually disengage and walk off the court. Ask open ended questions that start with Who, What, When, Where and How. Avoid asking "why" questions as they can come off as judgmental and can be off-putting. Be curious with class!

Si queremos concurrir a una reunión de networking debemos pensar en lo que podemos ofrecer a los demás y no simplemente en "vender" nuestros productos o servicios. Ser generosos con respecto a los asistentes y analizar en qué podemos ayudarlos a través de recomendaciones y "sentir" que es un win-win, que nos beneficiamos todos por estar en una red de contactos. También ser empáticos y mostrar interés en "escucharlos activamente".

Networking is not just a transaction. When you give, you create a foundation of trust and respect. This can be in the form of sharing knowledge, introducing people to each other, or offering support without expecting anything in return. By being a resource for others, you position yourself as a valuable connection, and people are often more willing to help you when you need it.When attending a networking event I always enter with the intention of being a linchpin. Curiously I ask other attendees about their motivation for being there. I memorize a few details about them each and pitch them to the next person. I attend to give and learn before all else.

Remember to balance "How curious" you are during your Networking relationships >> 1... To avoid known detrimental reality from hurting you - this is within this Insight = "Curiosity kills Cats" AND 2... By you needing to ask to many questions - will make the networking relations feel that you are "Not very sure of your Life purpose or understanding real innerself" AND 3... On the other side of this curiosity Insight - is ok to ask questions that are only essential (avoid useless queries) then your network will feel that you are really devoted to build a long-lasting relation (because "Lack of curiosity" can also be felt by others that you are "Not really interested") THUS: "Satisfaction will bring their trust back into their Heart"

Don't just try to sell. Try to create value. What that means depends on the situation. It could be sharing an idea, or making a referral. It may also be making yourself available for future interactions. You might do something for free, but not set an expectation of this going forward. Always be genuine in your interactions. Don't just be playing a long game towards future sales. Let that happen naturally. If you are genuinely curious, you are more likely to build a relationship that is mutually beneficial.

Muchas veces los asistentes a las reuniones de networking comenten el error de no volver a contactar a las personas con las que interactuaron e intercambiaron tarjetas. Uno de los objetivos del networking es generar vínculos con personas de otros rubros, con las cuales pueden complementarse y, también del mismo rubro, para realizar alianzas estratégicas; pero eso solo se puede lograr si se realiza un seguimiento través de una llamada telefónica o envío de un mail con la finalidad de saludar, agradecer y agendar una reunión.

This step is key. When you combine intention with conscious action, that’s when you get the result you want. This also means you’re following through with your goal which helps create feelings of Satisfaction. Afterall, taking action towards our goals turn into bliss chemicals (dopamine).

In my experience, another biggest networking mistake is Giving before you Take. In short, constantly talking about your goals, your purpose, your business, your system. Instead, be an active listener and hear the person out. And don’t ask too many questions it can come out as condescending for many. Instead try to share your experience in a subtle way while letting them share their perspective and opinions.

Following up and following through is most effective when at the time of meeting your "new connection'' ask what's the best way to keep in touch. While for you it might be email, they may prefer sms, zoom or a direct call. Add to this request by seeing if they are happy to disclose when in their day, or week they are most likely to review new contacts communications.

Wrong. One must follow-up within 23 hours, 23 minutes and 23 seconds otherwise the relationship is compromised. C’mon! Why within 24 hours? Where are those rules written? What are the rules? There are no rules if not to do what feels right at each given moment. One can follow up even after 3 days or 1 week and still make the most out of this new relationship.

In a network there will always be a number of people with similar and contrasting personalities. Each individual holds value and deserves respect. We can look beyond superficial differences and try to understand their deeper story. It helps to see each person as equal and to avoid power dynamics. Comparison can create a toxic atmosphere and is remedied by self-acceptance. Do not bring an expectation that people are there for our fullfillment with their time, affection or attention. We should show up with an attitude that is non-transactional. A spirit of mutual care and collaboration helps.

Being authentic means being honest about your experiences, values, and goals. When you share your authentic story, you create a stronger connection with people who can relate to your experiences. Authenticity makes your relationships deeper and more meaningful, which is key to building a network based on trust and mutual support. Expressing gratitude to your network connections is crucial. When someone helps you, gives you advice, or makes an introduction, show your gratitude. It doesn't always have to be in grand gestures; a simple thank you or a personal message can make a significant difference. Gratitude creates a positive and supportive atmosphere within your network.

Being truthful and sincere is very important in building a great network. No great person want a fake person around them. So it is important to be you-don't fake it, if not, you will break it. Also, it is an established value from time immemorial that honour begat honour. Human beings are naturally attracted to people that respect them.

Beyond being yourself and showing respect, foster genuine curiosity. Ask questions that delve into the other person's experiences, passions, and challenges. Listen actively and with intent, not just waiting for your turn to speak. Authentic connections blossom when you express a sincere interest in others. It's not just about what you can gain but also about what you can learn and contribute. By cultivating genuine curiosity, you transform networking from a transaction to a meaningful exchange of insights and possibilities.

Speak to people in the way they like to be spoken to. It’s this simple. Understanding the basics of psychology of human behaviour comes in handy.

Wisest ways to avoid mistakes in your Network building - is by : 1. NEVER avoid "constructive criticism" from anyone - because that is one of the best ways to Learn and Improve your service. AND 2. NEVER dishonor promises that you say to anyone, because then your "Trustworthiness" will result in only attract negativity, instead of "Quality Hearted" characters ; AND REMEMBER : "YOUR WORD IS YOUR BOND" = Always "Say what you mean" and "Do what you Say" ⭐️ 3.

“La práctica hace maestros” se dice en mi país. No esperes el momento indicado o hasta sentirte perfectamente preparado. Permanece curioso, atento, a veces cuando menos se piensa el momento se presenta, incluso aunque no lo estés buscando. Aprende de cada experiencia y evalúa siempre tus resultados. Cada vez será mejor que la anterior.

Networking is a skill that can be taught. As a professional networking strategist, I help clients master the art of networking to get more “yes” responses from their advocates and affiliate partners. "Trial and error" is a method that's no longer efficient. Instead, with proper coaching, you can learn from successful strategies and gain new vantage points in your market. Not taking the necessary support to make your first impression the best it can possibly be, would be a huge mistake. In the game of networking, you only get one shot to do it right.

I once was in a networking event where there was this guy that was simply BRILLIANT in his way of relating to people. Just by looking at him was already a great way for me to learn how to network well. That’s why I find it useful to look at people that are good models of networking and learn from them just by observation 👀

En mis primeros eventos que asistí, me quedaba en la fila para conversar con expertos pero luego aprendí que las personas que esperaban antes o después de mi también buscan oportunidades, no te dejes impresionar y no peques de soberbio, conversa con todos, solo así podrás ganar un espacio y sacar al mayor provecho de la visita.

Common networking mistakes we engage in: 1. Waiting until a specific need arises before initiating networking 2. Restricting networking efforts to a specific circle; not leveraging diverse connections 3. Forgetting to give back; focusing solely on one's own needs 4. Ignoring relationship building; rushing into seeking favors 5. Not being a good listener 6. Overlooking the need to be authentic & connect organically with authentic people 7. Approaching networking with a clear agenda and appearing too transactional 8. Not following up after an initial interaction. Being mindful of these mistakes & proactively building genuine, reciprocal, & long-lasting professional relationships serves to enhance one's networking efforts & career prospects.

Networking mistakes: - Being too needy - Over complimenting - Waiting to interact alone - Lengthy conversation These 4 are must need to avoid.

Netzwerken bedeutet für mich zuerst ein Geben, wie vieles im Leben. Nach dem Einstieg mit Namen, aus welcher Gegend mein Gegenüber kommt etc. frage ich lieber «Was inspiriert dich an deinem Beruf?» anstelle «Was machst du beruflich?». Somit hat man einerseits eine Frage im beruflichen Kontext, anderseits ruft man mit dem Wort «inspirieren» Emotionen hervor. Das Eis ist somit schnell gebrochen, das Gegenüber ist überrascht und spürt richtiges Interesse. Netzwerken soll ehrlich und authentisch sein. Demzufolge konzentriere ich mich an einem Netzwerkanlass lieber auf 1 - 2 Menschen, um sie besser kennenzulernen, wenn die Wellenlänge stimmt. Empfehlenswert ist das Buch «Wie man Freunde gewinnt» von Dale Carnegie.

My biggest mistakes were more or less (1) starting later than I could (2) thinking I have little to no tangible value to contribute to the conversation (3) pretending to be someone I was not .. Other than that, it's all situational. Instead of trying to avoid things that could go wrong (i.e, your self-intro), focus on experimenting with what you could give to the conversation/ interaction.

Here are the tips to consider more often: • connect with like-minded individuals • follow up more often • check up on their pain points and how you can help solve them • bring them the most value, save their time, make them more money, or make them feel good, that's it