5 Disasters to Avoid When Networking

Written by Alex Cureton-Griffiths

5. Don't forget your cards
We've all been there -- taking a bundle of cards and then realising we've run out. Just don't make a habit of it, and for god's sake don't tell us you "don't believe in cards, because they're just so impersonal, aren't they?" What? You think we'll remember you out of a room of dozens of other people if you don't have a card? How arrogant is that?

4. Don't hog the conversation
Networking events are chances to meet new people and get to know them a little bit. Not a chance to regale your victims for hours about how much you miss home or how much you dislike Japan. If people are starting to edge away, breaking eye contact or sticking ballpoint pens in their ears, then it's a sign you need to zip it.

3. Don't be a wimp when you shake hands
Whatever your gender, most people like some grip when shaking hands. If we wanted to shake hands with wet fish, we'd socialise in Carrefour's seafood department

2. Don't sell to us at the event
We've got your card. We know you're a travel agent/consultant/elephant trainer/whatever. If we wanted to know the latest prices on a flight to Timbuktu, we'd ask. If you're really interested in our business, send a quick email later on and bring it up then.

1. Don't throw your card at us
The main point of networking is to meet people, not collect little bits of cardboard. It means nothing to us if you just rush up, give your card and run away to your next target with card in hand. It's as if you care more about the card than the person, and that's a major no-no.