Dos and Don’ts of Networking

I’ve been discussing networking for a couple of weeks now, so here’s a list of dos and don’ts to summarize what I’ve learned through this journey:

• Don’t give up!
• Do have confidence in yourself!
• Don’t wait for opportunities to come to you! Do go out and make your own opportunities!
• Don’t be afraid!
• Do make eye contact!
• Do plan what you’re going to say ahead of time!
• Don’t go into every situation with an agenda!
• Do collect business cards! Don’t just let them sit in a drawer! Do follow up with those contacts!
• Do start conversations! Do ask people about themselves!
• Don’t wait for networking opportunities to come to you. Do get out there—find new people to network with—a great source is http://www.meetup.com to find groups meeting in your area!
• Do ask for advice!
• Don’t retreat to a corner!
• Do watch others as they network. Pick up pointers of other dos and don’ts through observation!
• Don’t assume when someone doesn’t respond to you or doesn’t let you have that seat that you’re being rejected. Don’t get discouraged.
• Do refresh yourself with time alone or time with your supporting group of friends/family.
• Don’t put off networking. Building your network of contacts now will lead to more success in the future.
• Don’t talk someone’s ear off. Do know when to shut-up.
• Don’t stalk the person you’re trying to network with. Do know when to walk away.
• Do learn how to write good letters and e-mails.
• Do practice speaking to business contacts on the phone.
• Do treat everyone you come in contact with as you would like to be treated if you were in his or her shoes.