Networking is an essential part of career development, helping you build valuable relationships that can lead to new opportunities. However, knowing how to navigate these interactions can be tricky. Here are some practical examples of networking etiquette dos and don’ts to help you make a positive impression.
After attending a networking event, it’s important to follow up with the people you met. This helps to solidify the connection and keep the conversation going.
Imagine you met Sarah at a marketing conference, and you both connected over your shared interest in social media strategies. A few days after the event, you decide to send her a follow-up message.
“Hi Sarah,
It was great meeting you at the marketing conference last week! I really enjoyed our discussion about social media strategies, especially the tips you shared on engagement. I’d love to stay in touch and perhaps exchange ideas over coffee sometime. Let me know if you’d be interested!
Best,
[Your Name]”
Always personalize your message to remind the person of your previous conversation. This helps in building rapport. If you don’t get a response right away, wait a week or two before trying again, but avoid being too pushy.
When networking, especially at events, it’s essential to respect personal space and body language of others.
During a career fair, you approach a recruiter from a company you’re interested in. Instead of standing too close, which can make the recruiter uncomfortable, you maintain a friendly distance. You say,
“Hi, I’m [Your Name]. I’m really interested in learning more about the opportunities at [Company Name]. What would you say sets your company apart from others in the industry?”
By positioning yourself a couple of feet away, you ensure they feel comfortable while still engaging in a meaningful conversation.
Watch for their body language. If they step back or seem distracted, it might be a cue to give them a little space. Always approach with a friendly demeanor, and be aware of social cues.
Networking events are professional spaces, and while it’s great to build rapport, personal questions can be seen as intrusive.
At a local business networking event, you’re chatting with someone from your industry. Instead of asking, “So, why are you still single?"—which could make them uncomfortable—you stick to professional topics.
You might say, “What do you enjoy most about your current position? Have you worked on any exciting projects lately?”
This keeps the conversation professional and respects the boundaries of personal information.
If someone shares personal information, it’s okay to respond with empathy, but avoid asking probing questions about their personal life. Always prioritize creating a comfortable environment for open dialogue.
By following these examples of networking etiquette dos and don’ts, you can cultivate meaningful connections while maintaining professionalism. Remember, networking is not just about what you can gain, but also about building a supportive community around you.