Several Reasons Why Networking is not Working for You

Learning how to network effectively is a crucial skill in todays business world. If after repeated attempts networking has not worked for you, there are a few key factors to examine.

First, did you wait too long? Many people start networking only when they already need something, this is the wrong approach to take. Networking involves meeting new people and developing and maintaining relationships. It is a continuous and ongoing process; if you wait until you are already in need of assistance you will not have enough time to generate meaningful contacts.

Another reason networking may not be working for you is because you are unprepared. If you are attending a networking event, you should know why you are going and the types of people that will be there. You should research specific contacts that may be there as well as prepare some conversation topics ahead of time. Keep in mind having a little bit of back ground knowledge about the people who are attending the event will make starting a conversation easier. As part of your preparation you should set up a thirty second pitch. A pitch should be a fast way to introduce yourself and what you have to offer. Doing your homework and planning ahead will help you avoid the mistake of arriving unprepared.

Networking will also be ineffective if you forget your business cards. You should always carry your business cards on you, but especially if you are attending a networking event. It appears on professional to give out your contact information on a scrap piece of paper or napkin. Doing so may discourage a contact from getting in touch with you in the future. Your business cards should be printed on quality material and you should give them out generously. The more cards you have circulating at any given time the more likely they will be useful.

Another very common reason networking may not be working for you is you may be coming across as pompous or too aggressive. To effectively network, listening to others is just as important as promoting yourself. Experts recommend that when networking you spend 80 percent of your time listening. To avoid looking arrogant ask questions about others, offer advise, and dont talk too much about how great you think you are. While a big part of networking is marketing yourself, it is important to know where to draw the line.

If you are constantly monopolizing all of your contacts time your networking efforts may be going to waste. Keep in mind, people attend these events to socialize and mingle. They may become annoyed if they feel you are dominating their entire evening.

Another reason networking might not be working for you may involve your appearance. Also avoid dressing down. You should present yourself professionally at networking events. This means dressing in appropriate attire, standing up straight, making eye contact, and practicing business etiquette. Remember though you may be at a party you goal is to build healthy business relationships. For this reason you should also try to limit your alcohol intake.

One of the main reasons networking may not be working for you effectively involves the level of effort you are putting forth. Avoid is being passive at networking events; be aggressive without being obnoxious. Persistence will show that you are interested and self-assured. Ask follow up questions and remain engaged in the conversation, remaining passionate and enthusiastic.

Networking is becoming a more popular way to do business; because of this it is crucial that you learn how to do it effectively. If you feel it is not working for you should examine some of these key areas to figure out what may be going wrong.