By: Adrian Miller
We’ve all been guilty of one or two networking gaffes over the years, but if you’re consistently making these faux pas, you’re missing out on valuable business opportunities.
Number 10 – Not Saying Thank You to the Person Who Made the Introduction
An introduction is a gift. Treat it as such. Thank the person who gave it to you, regardless if it leads to a sale or not.
Number 9 – Not Following Up with Introduction in a Prompt Manner
We’re all busy, but following up with an introduction should always be prioritized. Without a timely follow-up, you are sending a clear message that you don’t care, and you very well could miss out on a potentially lucrative opportunity.
Number 8 – Blowing off an Introduction Because You Don’t Think They’re Worthy
Don’t ever make assumptions when it comes to introductions. Often times, it’s those that seem the least plausible that become the most valuable to you. Keep your mind open and treat every introduction equally.
Number 7 – Not Taking the Time to Learn About the Introduction
Do your homework before you pick up that phone. By learning about the introduction beforehand, you’ll have a good foundation for determining how you can help each other.
Number 6 – Being Overbearing or Overreaching
Just as you don’t say “I love you” on a first date, don’t scare away an introduction with being too aggressive. Take your time to determine ways to best work together and let your relationship flourish.
Number 5 – Not Reciprocating with Introductions
Networking is most definitely a two-way street. You should be providing your contacts with as many, if not more leads, than you are receiving.
Number 4 – Being Dishonest About Who You Know
There is no point in bragging about untrue big-wig contacts to impress others. Once they figure out that you’re all talk and no action, you’ll lose credibility and the real contacts who can generate real sales.
Number 3 – Not Closing the Loop
Oops! Did you forget to keep the person who made the introduction up-to-date? This is one of the most common and easy-to-make gaffes. By keeping them in the loop, you’re expressing your appreciation for their networking efforts.
Number 2 – Not Thinking Out of the Box
Develop some networking creativity. Explore new ways to work together and offer unconventional leads. Sometimes, the least likely relationships are the most productive of all!
Number 1 – Not Realizing How Important Networking Is For Business Development
You’re not an island. You need the assistance of others, and they need your assistance. Every business requires new customers and new opportunities, and networking is simply the most cost-efficient, most effective way to grow your business.
For over 20 years, Adrian Miller has been a strategic ally to companies requiring results-driven, sales-level performance training and executive-level business development consulting. As the president of Adrian Miller Sales Training, she is a highly recognized sales training expert. Learn more about Adrian at http://www.adrianmiller.com or join Adrian’s innovative virtual networking community at http://www.adriansnetwork.com.