The do's and don'ts of networking

Section 1 : Important points to remember

Do: Be genuine
When you’re meeting new people, focus on being authentic rather than putting on a "business face." People can sense when you're only out to get something from them and that can quickly turn them off. Instead, aim to form genuine connections. Ask about their work, their challenges, and what drives them, rather than jumping straight to how they can help you. Networking isn’t a transaction - it’s about building trust over time.

Imagine you’re at a networking event and someone immediately asks for a favor without even trying to learn about you first. It feels off, right? Don’t be that person. Instead, take time to listen and learn. You’ll leave a far better impression and people will be more inclined to support you down the line.

Don’t: Make it all about you
It’s tempting to focus on pitching your business or talking about your own achievements, but that can make the conversation feel one-sided. Remember, networking is a two-way street. Yes, you want to share what you do, but you should also be equally invested in what the other person is bringing to the table. Ask thoughtful questions and be genuinely curious about how you can help them. This creates the foundation for a mutually beneficial relationship.

For example, instead of launching into a detailed explanation of your latest project, start by asking about their business. What challenges are they facing? What are their goals? This approach makes it clear that you’re interested in more than just your own agenda.

Do: Follow up
The relationship doesn’t end when the event does. If you had a great conversation, don’t let it stop there. Follow up afterward with a simple message or email. Even a short note thanking them for their time can go a long way in keeping the connection alive. If you promised to send them a link or introduce them to someone, make sure to follow through. People remember those who deliver on their promises.

Think of it this way: following up is like watering a plant. Without that extra care, the relationship can fade, but with regular attention, it will grow. Make it a habit to check in with people from time to time, even if there’s no immediate business opportunity. That consistency will set you apart. If you only reach out when you need something, people will start to feel like you're only interested in their connections for your own gain. Instead, make an effort to check in periodically, offer support, or share something that might be useful to them. This way, when an opportunity does arise, your relationship will already be built on trust and mutual benefit.

Don’t: Come empty-handed
When you approach networking with a "what can I get?" mindset, you’re missing the point. Instead, focus on what you can give. Whether it’s a piece of advice, a connection to someone in your network, or simply being a sounding board for their ideas, offering value makes you stand out in the best way. When you help others, you build goodwill and trust - and that’s when real networking magic happens.

If someone you met is struggling with marketing and you know a great book or resource that could help, share it. Or, if you know someone in their industry who could offer valuable insight, make the introduction. Networking isn’t about keeping score, but rather building relationships based on mutual support.

Do: Know your goals
Before heading to any networking event, take some time to think about why you’re there. Are you looking for potential clients, seeking advice from industry veterans, or hoping to collaborate with like-minded entrepreneurs? Having a clear purpose will help you navigate conversations more effectively and make meaningful connections.

Imagine you’re walking into a room full of people. Without a goal, you might end up wandering from conversation to conversation without direction. But with a goal in mind, you can focus your energy on finding the right people to talk to and making the most of your time.

Don’t: Overpromise
It’s tempting to say "yes" to every opportunity that comes your way, especially when you're eager to grow your business. But overpromising and then underdelivering can damage your reputation. Be honest about what you can do and don’t make commitments you can’t keep. It’s better to be realistic and reliable than to impress someone initially only to let them down later.

If you’re unsure about whether you can follow through on something, it’s okay to say, "Let me think about that and get back to you." This shows integrity and ensures that you only commit to what’s feasible.