Are you looking to make valuable connections to further your career? Networking can be a powerful tool in achieving your career goals, but it can also be intimidating and overwhelming. That’s why it’s important to understand the dos and don’ts of networking for career success. Let’s dive in!

The Dos 🥇

Do your research 📚

Before attending a networking event, do your research on the attendees and the companies represented. This will allow you to have a better understanding of who you should connect with and what type of conversation to have. Knowing your audience can open up opportunities for meaningful dialogue and make a lasting impression.

A person at a desk, doing research

Do set goals 🎯

Setting goals for each networking event can help you stay focused and achieve your desired outcome. Consider what you hope to gain from the event and create goals based on these desires. Whether it’s to meet someone from a particular company or to learn about a new industry, setting goals can help you make the most of your networking experience.

A person holding a notepad, with a pen and writing 'Goals' at the top of the page

Do be authentic and genuine 🤝

Networking is all about building relationships and the best way to do that is by being authentic and genuine. Be yourself and don’t try to be someone you’re not. People appreciate honesty, and it can lead to more productive conversations and meaningful connections.

Two people shaking hands, with a smile and the word 'genuine' in a speech bubble

Do follow up with connections 📩

After making connections at a networking event, be sure to follow up with them afterward. Send an email or a thank you note expressing gratitude for their time and expressing your interest in future conversations. This can help strengthen the relationship and keep you top of mind for potential opportunities.

A person holding a phone, with an email symbol and a note in the background

The Don’ts 🧨

Don’t overload on business cards 📇

While it’s important to have business cards on hand, don’t overload on them. Handing out too many cards can come off as pushy and insincere. Instead, focus on having meaningful conversations and only exchange cards with those who you believe can truly benefit from your services or knowledge.

A person holding a handful of business cards, with a red cross/sign over the hand

Don’t monopolize conversations 🗣️

Networking events are meant to be a two-way conversation. Don’t monopolize the conversation and make it all about yourself. Be sure to listen to the other person and ask questions to show interest in their perspectives and experiences. Engaging in a conversation can help build a rapport and establish a connection.

Two people having a conversation, with a speech bubble that says 'listening is key'

Don’t be too salesy 🛍️

Networking events are not the place to make hard sales pitches. Trying to push your product or service can be a turnoff and ruin potential relationships. Instead, focus on building a rapport with a person and discussing your experiences and expertise. That way, you can showcase your skills in an organic and more effective manner.

A person with a shopping cart, with a red cross/sign over the cart

Don’t forget to follow up 🤔

Following up is crucial in cultivating any professional relationship. Don’t forget to follow up with your connections and touch base periodically. This reinforces that you value the relationship and opens the door for future conversations and opportunities.

A person holding a phone, with a follow-up symbol and a calendar in the background

Conclusion 💡

By following these dos and don’ts of networking, you can make the most out of your networking events and make valuable career connections. Building connections takes time, effort, and patience, but can open up doors that you might not have been able to walk through otherwise. Remember to be confident and authentic in yourself, set goals, and always follow up with your connections. Happy networking!

A person as the center of a networking graphic, with arrows and connection lines; surrounded by career-related icons such as a briefcase, a phone, and a globe