3 Crucial Networking Mistakes to Avoid at All Costs

By: Michael | Published: May 4, 2010 | Filed under: About small businesses, Networking

This is the first in a series of posts discussing networking for small business owners.

Networking is without a doubt one of the most critical parts of growing a fledgling business. Before we cover where to find networking opportunities, both in person and online, let’s look at some of the most common issues business owners have when they attend networking events.

Mistake #1: Being Shy:

When you attend a networking event, the last thing you want to happen is you arrive at the event and don’t approach people. The first thing to keep in mind to overcome shyness at a networking event is that everyone at the event should have something in common. For example, if you are at an industry trade show, everyone else attending will have some knowledge about the industry that you are discussing. The easiest way to start networking is to simply approach someone and introduce yourself. Many networking events will issue name badges to help make people easier to approach, but even if they don’t, introducing yourself is the easiest way to start a conversation with someone. From there simply begin to discuss the subject of the networking event. You should find yourself engaged in relevant conversation in no time.

Another great way to overcome the fear of having to approach random people at an event is to attempt to connect with people before hand, if possible. For example, if you are attending a networking event that you found on Meetup.com, the event page will list who is attending and any bio that they have published about themselves. From here, you have the ability to connect with each person who you feel you would like to meet with. Sending them a quick message expressing a desire to meet at the event will put you on your way to having your first contact.

Mistake #2: Pushing Your Product

Author David Meerman Scott says: “Nobody cares about your product (except for you.)” It is existential that you keep this in mind while you are networking. Your goal shouldn’t be to sell your product or service at the event. Rather, discuss what you do and the problems it solves. Be confident in what you offer and how it helps. Engage others in conversation about what you have in common.

If you are talking to someone who you think is a good fit the solution that your brand offers, make sure to leave a positive impact on that person. The most simple way to leave a positive impact on someone you’re interested in working with is to show a sincere interest in their venture. Ask them questions about their company and demonstrate that you are legitimately interested in what they do. Get their contact information and follow up from there.

Mistake #3: Not Having an Open Mind

This is a lesson that I have learned from experience. People you meet with may not always have the same beliefs that you do.  Just because someone you met disagrees with you on a certain topic doesn’t mean either of you are correct. Discuss why you feel the way you do about the topic and ask why they disagree. The beauty of this is you may realize an entirely new perspective to a problem that you wouldn’t have otherwise seen. Remember, you are not necessarily trying to win the person over to your school or thought, but rather trying to understand their perspective on the issue.

We want to hear from YOU! What networking mistakes have you learned from in the past? Is there something that people do at networking events that drives you crazy? Tell us in the comments!