Here are some of the mistakes and misconceptions often witnessed in networking and my advice.

1. That all networking events and groups are the same.
   Each group has its own culture, format and benefits. You need to try things to find the right fit, what suits your character and what meets your business requirements.
2. That attendance at 1 group is sufficient.
   Most successful networkers attend multiple groups and strive for a blended strategy of in-person, on-line and social networking – the new networking normal.
3. That networking is about event attendance.
   Networking takes many other forms. It is not about rocking up to an event, swapping business cards like they’re sweets, talking to loads of folk, then heading off thinking you’ve ticked the box. Don’t ignore the multiple social and life networks you’re already in – connection bubbles I call them.
4. That quantity is better than quality.
   The value of networking lies in strong relationship-building from the inner centre outwards AND in the networks that sit behind the people you meet.
5. That you can’t follow up with someone you met/were introduced to ages ago.
   Prompt follow up is ideal but we all get busy. I teach folk a 7 step follow-up strategy and EVEN if time has elapsed, you can still get in contact.
6. That you’re not yet in multiple networks or already networking.
   Don’t overlook all the connection bubbles you already belong too and how to leverage these. Remember to share what you do wherever you go and (where appropriate) with whoever you’re mingling with.
7. That your personal life/circles aren’t relevant to business lead generation and relationship-building and/or you want to keep things separate.
   This is personal choice and situational of course, but if you enjoy what you do and believe you can add value and solve problems, it can be hugely beneficial for that information to be shared beyond work circles.
8. That you’ll get sales from networking.
   You might of course get lucky early on but networking as we all know is a slow-burner and about relationships first, sales (potentially) next.
9. That online (zoom) networking is impersonal / boring / repetitive and can’t work.
   With the right inter-personal and technical skills, online networking can work wonders and give added geographical reach PLUS this version isn’t going back in its box now that lockdown has unleashed it!
10. That everyone networks for the same reason and is prospecting.
    There are many reasons to network and you need to figure out your Networking Why before you start to figure out the rest of Kiplings 5W’s but remember that other people’s Why’s may differ to yours. Actively listen first. Speak next. Adapt what you say (adapted pitching I’d call that).
11. That other networkers, even experienced ones, don’t get nervous or uncomfortable at times talking to strangers or breaking into closed groups.
    Networking is not about confident, extrovert behaviour, it’s about skillset, strategy, being human AND finding the right balance between feeling comfortable and yet pushing beyond your comfort zone. H2H – Human-to-human networking is the right approach when you’re new or nervous. No labels hierarchy or pressure. It’s just initial business chat after all.
12. That people you meet are better than you by title, company name, job description or career history.
    You’re in the same room now and the playing field is level. Networking begins with respect and equality so park the imposter syndrome at the front door because everyone has their value.

I would invite you to reflect on whether the above observations have ever impacted your prior experiences or interpretation of how networking works.

If, beyond this, you agree that networking is more than just event attendance and feel you might like to chat through your networking and business relation-building strategy, then contact me for a no-obligation Discovery Call or a Power Hour planning session. I can review your networking and business development challenges, generate ideas and back them with the right contacts for quick solutions.

For any current event details, you can also head over to www.colonynetworking.co.uk