Networking. Just the word can make some people break out in a cold sweat. Want to Improve Your Networking Skills Let’s face it—walking into a room full of strangers and trying to make meaningful connections can feel like being the new kid at school… but with business cards. If you’ve ever felt awkward, stumbled over your words, or walked away from a networking event wondering if you’d accidentally said something weird—you’re not alone.
The truth is, networking isn’t about being perfect; it’s about being genuine. But there are some sneaky communication pitfalls that can derail even the most well-meaning efforts. The good news? You can avoid them with a few simple tweaks. Stick with me, and I’ll show you how to turn your networking game from “meh” to memorable. And yes, we’ll even have a laugh or two along the way. Ready? Let’s dive in!
1. Talking Too Much (a.k.a. The Human Podcast)
We all know that person. They corner you at an event, and suddenly you’re trapped in a monologue about their childhood pet rabbit, their recent keto diet success, and their grand plans to revolutionize the paperclip industry. Don’t be that person.
Why it’s a problem: Networking is about building connections, not delivering TED Talks to unsuspecting strangers. If you’re doing all the talking, you’re not giving others a chance to share their stories or needs.
How to fix it:
- Use the 50/50 rule: Spend as much time listening as you do speaking.
- Ask open-ended questions like, “What brings you to this event?” or “What projects are you excited about lately?”
- Resist the urge to fill silences. Sometimes a pause is just a pause—not a cue to launch into your life story.
Funny thought: If you’re the only one laughing at your jokes, it might be time to let someone else take the mic.
2. Forgetting Names Faster Than Your Wi-Fi Drops
“Hi, I’m Sarah.” Five seconds later: Wait, was it Sarah? Susan? Samantha?
Why it’s a problem: Forgetting someone’s name makes them feel unimportant, which is the opposite of what you want when networking.
How to fix it:
- Repeat their name right after they introduce themselves: “Nice to meet you, Sarah.”
- Create a mental image or association. For example, Sarah loves skiing? Picture her on a snowy mountain.
- Write it down ASAP (not in front of them, of course—that’s just weird).
Funny thought: Imagine introducing yourself as “John” and someone calling you “James” for the next 20 minutes. Awkward, right?
3. Overloading on Business Jargon (a.k.a. Buzzword Bingo)
“Our synergy is going to disrupt the paradigm with a scalable solution.” Huh? What did you just say?
Why it’s a problem: Nobody likes feeling like they need a translator for plain English. Buzzwords might sound impressive in your head, but they often leave others confused or tuned out.
How to fix it:
- Speak like a human, not a corporate robot.
- Use simple, clear language that anyone can understand. Instead of “scalable solutions,” say “expanding your reach” or “getting bigger results.”
- Gauge your audience. If they’re throwing around jargon too, fine—match their energy. Otherwise, keep it simple.
Funny thought: If you sound like a walking LinkedIn post, take it down a notch. No one’s giving out gold stars for jargon use.
4. Interrupting Like It’s a Sport
We’ve all done it—jumped in mid-sentence because we had a brilliant thought or couldn’t wait to agree. But interrupting sends the message that what you have to say is more important than the other person’s words.
Why it’s a problem: It’s rude. Plain and simple. Interrupting breaks the flow of conversation and makes people feel unheard.
How to fix it:
- Practice active listening. Focus entirely on what the other person is saying without planning your response.
- Count to three before you reply. It’ll feel weird at first, but it ensures the other person has finished their thought.
- If you accidentally interrupt, acknowledge it. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to cut you off. Please continue.”
Funny thought: Interrupting someone during a networking event is like cutting in line for cake. Nobody likes that person.
5. Over-Pitching Yourself
“Hi, I’m Jane, and I can help you double your income in 30 days! Also, here’s my card, my website, and my 12-step program.” Whoa, slow down there, tiger.
Why it’s a problem: Networking isn’t about immediately closing deals or shoving your pitch down someone’s throat. It’s about building trust and relationships first. Over-pitching can make you seem desperate or pushy.
How to fix it:
- Focus on building rapport instead of making sales.
- Share what you do naturally within the flow of conversation. For example, “I help small businesses grow their online presence” is better than “Here’s why you need my services.”
- Be genuinely curious about others. Ask about their work and challenges instead of monopolizing the conversation.
Funny thought: If your elevator pitch feels like a telemarketer script, it’s time to rewrite it.
6. Not Following Up (a.k.a. Ghosting Your Connections)
So you had a great chat, exchanged contact info, and… crickets. Weeks later, they barely remember you, and the potential connection is lost.
Why it’s a problem: Networking doesn’t end when the event does. If you don’t follow up, you miss opportunities to solidify relationships and keep the conversation going.
How to fix it:
- Send a follow-up email or message within 24-48 hours. Mention something specific from your conversation to jog their memory.
- Offer value in your follow-up. Share an article, introduce them to someone in your network, or offer insights relevant to their interests.
- Stay in touch periodically. Even a simple “How’s it going?” can keep the relationship alive.
Funny thought: Ghosting someone after networking is like baking cookies and forgetting to take them out of the oven. All that effort, wasted.
Wrapping It Up: Mastering the Art of Networking
Improving your networking skills doesn’t require a complete personality overhaul. It’s about being mindful of your communication habits and making small adjustments that can lead to big results. Remember to talk less, listen more, and avoid turning into the jargon-spewing, name-forgetting, interrupting, over-pitching version of yourself.
Oh, and don’t forget to follow up. Because no one wants to be the ghost in someone else’s networking story. Happy networking, and may your conversations be as smooth as your Wi-Fi connection on a good day!