TIN #137 - The Three Habits Great Networkers Avoid—and What to Do Instead
3 Networking Mistakes You Must Avoid
Networking can feel awkward, tiring, or even transactional at times.
But what if you could transform your approach into something natural, authentic, and effective?
Here are three things great networkers never do.
And what you should do instead.
This issue takes about 4 minutes to read…
Before We Get Started:
My online course, “5 Steps To Grow Your Professional Network,” is FREE for all my newsletter subscribers. Learn the process I use everyday to grow my professional network.
Each week, I post a new podcast with tips you’ll find in the weekly newsletter and bonus stories, wisdom, and motivation. The Introverted Networker podcast is like the weekly newsletter but with additional narration and thoughts from me. Be sure to listen to this week’s podcast and check out the previous episodes of the podcast on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for more networking tips and insights.
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1. Great Networkers Don’t Wait Until They Need Something
We’ve all been there—a long-lost colleague or classmate suddenly pops up, asking for a favor after years of silence.
It feels awkward, doesn’t it?
Great networkers avoid this pitfall by consistently nurturing relationships, not just when they need help.
Instead of waiting until a need arises, make it a habit to check in regularly.
It doesn’t have to be overwhelming.
Set reminders or keep a simple list of people you value and reach out periodically.
A quick message like, “Hey, I thought of you and wondered how you’re doing,” or referencing a shared experience can go a long way.
This approach keeps you top of mind for others and ensures the relationship feels genuine when you do need support.
📌 Pro Tip: Use tools like a networking tracker or calendar to schedule regular check-ins. Need some ideas? Check out TIN #035 - How To Mange Your List Of Networking Connections
Small, consistent gestures can strengthen connections without overwhelming your schedule.
2. Great Networkers Don’t Make It All About Themselves
Ever been stuck listening to someone drone on about themselves during a networking conversation?
It’s exhausting.
Great networkers flip the script by practicing active listening and focusing on the other person first.
Aim for a two-way exchange.
Share your updates briefly, then pivot back to the other person.
This balance creates meaningful dialogue and leaves a lasting impression.
🌟 Remember: Networking is about building relationships, not delivering a monologue.
If you find yourself dominating the conversation, pause and ask, “What about you? What’s new in your world?”
3. Great Networkers Don’t Fake Authenticity
We’ve all received those robotic, generic LinkedIn messages:
“Hope you’re doing well. Let’s connect to explore synergies.”
Ugh!
Great networkers steer clear of jargon and forced friendliness.
Instead, they bring their genuine selves to the conversation.
When reaching out, think about how you’d naturally talk in person.
For example: “Hey, I saw your post about [topic], and it reminded me of when we worked on [shared experience]. How are you doing?”
Authenticity fosters trust and lays the groundwork for deeper connections.
📌 Strategy Tip: Use the “follow and comment” approach on platforms like LinkedIn. Check out TIN #083 - Revamp Your Networking: The LinkedIn Masterclass Edition to learn more about this strategy.
The TL;DR - Follow someone whose work you admire, engage thoughtfully with their posts, and build rapport before sending a connection request.
This shows you’re genuinely interested, not just looking for a quick favor.
Key Takeaways for Effortless Networking
Build relationships consistently, not just when you need something.
Focus on listening and giving rather than making it all about you.
Be authentic in your outreach—ditch the corporate scripts and show up as yourself.
Conclusion: Shift from Awkward to Authentic
Networking doesn’t need to be stressful or fake.
By avoiding these three common mistakes—waiting until you need something, being self-centered, and faking authenticity—you’ll transform your connections into meaningful, lasting relationships.
Start small: send a thoughtful message, listen more in your next conversation, or follow someone whose work inspires you.
These shifts will make networking feel less like a chore and more like a natural extension of your daily interactions.
Now it’s your turn!
What’s the worst networking experience you’ve ever had?
Share your story in the comments or send me a message.
Let’s learn from each other’s awkward moments so we can all grow together.
And remember: always be connecting!
Learning to LISTEN is one of the hardest yet most rewarding skills a business person can learn. Whether in networking or interacting with prospects. I really enjoyed this post Greg!