After reading Insights’ tips on making the most from networking events, you’ve hopefully been able exchange a few business cards and make some contacts at your professional functions. However, networking isn’t simply a case of knowing what to say – like wedding speeches or online dating, there exist a number of cardinal errors which must be avoided at all costs. To ensure you don’t make the wrong kind of impression at your next networking function, Insights has compiled a list of what not to do when aiming to expand your professional network.
1. Either show up or don’t RSVP
Imagine you’ve RSVP’d to a friend’s wedding. Then, without so much as a text to explain your absence, you fail to show up on the big day. Would you expect the friend to speak to you again, let alone invite you to their next event?
Well, the same courtesy applies for professional functions.
If a company, organisation, or professional body has invited you to an event, they have most likely allocated you space, catering, brochures, and other professional resources. If you don’t arrive without sending a cancellation email within a 24 hour timeframe, you can expect to receive considerably fewer invites to future events.
2. Dress for the Office, Not for the Pub
Many networking functions will imply that they’re frivolous social outings at which you can let your hair down with other like-minded professionals. They’re not. Equal parts info sessions, sales pitches and prospective job interviews, networking events generally demand the same kind of dress code as a day in the office. Wearing a muscle shirt or mini-skirt might be appropriate for a night at the pub, but it will send the wrong kind of message to your professional peers.
3. Don’t Be Late
Walking into a function halfway through an introductory speech is the best way to make an impression on the room. Unfortunately, it’s the worst way to make a good impression. It doesn’t matter how impressive your CV is – those in attendance will always remember you as the person who arrives late. Besides, the first 30 minutes of a function are often designated as “mingling time” – in other words, the most crucial period for building rapport with the other attendees.
4. Don’t Make Too Many Dietary Demands
Event caterers will generally do their best to prepare a few options for those who wish to avoid meat and dairy however it may be that despite that there is nothing that suits your particular dietary requirements. So just in case, play it safe and eat before you arrive.
5. Open Bars Lead to Closed Doors
This might sound like common sense, but overindulging at a networking event’s open bar is the best way to drown your professional reputation as well as your sorrows. Yes, it’s perfectly acceptable to enjoy a drink or two, but don’t view an open bar as a chance to consume all the free booze your liver can handle.
By adhering to these rules, you can ensure you are remembered for all of the right reasons at your next work event. Best of luck!