Networking Mistakes to Avoid
Networking isn’t just about you. (Yes, I’m talking to you, Mr. Elevator Pitch Hero.) Sorry not sorry, but it just isn't. Let’s talk about the elephant in the conference room: bad networking.
You know the type. You show up to a mixer, event, or coffee chat ready to meet cool people, swap ideas, and maybe build a connection. Instead, you end up cornered by someone who launches into a monologue about their business before you can even say your name. They hand you a card, give you the world’s fastest “elevator pitch,” and vanish into the crowd without ever asking what you do. You stand there blinking, wondering if you just got business-speed-dated without consenting. If that sounds familiar—you’re not alone. And if that sounds a little like something you’ve done before... well, keep reading. This is a safe space with some helpful advice... and maybe just a tiny bit of sarcasm.
Networking Is a Two-Way Street, Not a One-Person Podcast
Let’s be clear: there is nothing wrong with being excited about your business. Passion is contagious! But if you treat every networking interaction like a one-sided TED Talk, you’re not building relationships—you’re just talking at people. The best connections happen when conversations flow both ways. Ask questions. Show interest. Be curious. It’s not a performance—it’s a conversation.
People Remember How You Made Them Feel (Not Your Pitch)
No one leaves an event saying, “Wow, I really loved how that one guy listed his entire service menu in under 90 seconds.” But they will remember how you made them feel—welcomed, seen, and actually listened to. That’s what turns casual conversations into real relationships, referrals, and yes—clients. Networking isn’t about being the loudest voice in the room. It’s about being the most memorable one. And trust me, being a good listener is way more memorable than reciting your bio from memory.
Bad Networking Wastes Your Time and Money
Look, attending events, networking groups, and workshops—it all takes time. And if you’ve paid for a ticket or bought overpriced coffee to sit down with someone, it also costs money. So if your approach is all about you, you might be throwing both down the drain. Real talk: people don’t refer or collaborate with folks they don’t feel connected to. Investing in good networking means building real relationships that can actually go somewhere. Otherwise, you’re just collecting business cards like crazy with no real strategy.
Want to Be Better at Networking? Try This:
* Ask first, talk second. Start with curiosity. “What do you do?” “What brought you to this event?” “How did you get started?” It shows respect—and makes people want to ask you the same.
* Find common ground. Bond over something beyond business: dogs, coffee, your mutual love of oat milk lattes. Human connection = stronger business connection.
* Follow up like a human. Skip the salesy DMs. Instead, send a message saying “It was so great chatting with you!” or share a helpful resource. Keep the convo going without the pitch.
Networking should feel like making friends, not a sales marathon. If your version of networking is just handing out business cards and talking about yourself nonstop... well congratulations, you’re networking wrong. 😬 The good news? It’s fixable. Like, easily fixable. Be human. Be curious. Be kind. And remember: the best connections are built on real conversations, not rehearsed pitches.
Want to work with someone who actually listens? Whether you’re a business owner looking for brand photos or a fellow creative wanting to connect, I’d love to hang out—no awkward elevator pitches required. Reach out here or come say hi on Instagram. Let’s connect the right way.