Networking can be challenging, and by our own actions, we can make it even morechallenging for ourselves.
From all the networking I’ve experienced and observed, I’ve made a shortlist of relationship building transgressions – my seven (7) networking “sins”.
Whether you blindly commit one or more of these sins, or accidentally let’s say, routinely fall prey to them – my very strong recommendation is that you choose to minimize sinful networking behavior, (and at the very least, atone for past transgressions) before it’s too late.
These sins are:
- Overlooking your existing network of relationships (aka lustingafter complete strangers rather than turning to the connections you already have, for help, guidance and support).
- Failing to be specific in your networking asks for intros or leads (aka gluttony, in that by being “open to anything” for example, you’re putting the burden on your network, and consuming way too much of their time to seek solutions for you).
- Forgetting networking involves a give, not just a get (aka greed, as in greedlly only thinking about what you need from your network, and never about them).
- Only showing up when you need something (aka sloth, that is, absence of interest in actively contributing at all, in any network or community).
- Failing to follow-up (aka wrath, because failing to follow-up or follow-thru or circle back are networking behaviors which will draw the ire of your network who will choose to not be there for you in the future).
- Ignoring your peer network (aka envy, as in being so envious of you peers and colleagues, and viewing them as competitors rather than as collaborators and a cornerstone of your network growth, and long-term success).
- Blaming your personality for your network failings (aka pride, because networking is a matter of practice and familiarity, not personality).
😱 📵And I’ll add a bonus sin: relying on technology to do your networking for you. That is, somehow imagining an algorithm or AI (alone without thought) or a CRM or a mailing list you purchased or automation, is going to magically and seamlessly make a connection for you, without you putting in any effort or thought or humanity.
