Top Networking Mistakes to Avoid in Your Career

Mistake #1: Asking Before Giving

People notice when you show up only when you need something. Offer resources, thoughtful feedback, or helpful connections first to close the reciprocity gap and establish genuine credibility, long before any ask.

Mistake #1: Asking Before Giving

I once watched a junior PM cold-message a VP with, “Can you review my portfolio by Friday?” No context, no value. The VP ignored it. Later, someone else offered a concise teardown template—then asked. They got a meeting.

Mistake #2: Treating LinkedIn Like a Resume, Not a Conversation

Post working-in-public updates, ask questions that invite stories, and comment with specifics, not generic applause. Dialogue shows your thinking and opens doors that a polished headline alone never will. Try one thoughtful comment today.

Mistake #2: Treating LinkedIn Like a Resume, Not a Conversation

Before connecting, leave two thoughtful comments on someone’s posts. Reference a specific line, add a question, and share a related example. Then send your request. It feels warmer because you’ve already shown up with curiosity.

Mistake #3: Ghosting After the First Hello

Follow up after 3 days with a useful link or summary, after 3 weeks with a quick update, and after 30 days with progress. Small, sincere touches beat long gaps every time. Add this rhythm to your calendar today.

Mistake #3: Ghosting After the First Hello

A designer once had a promising chat with a creative director but never followed up. Months later, the role was filled internally. The director said, “I forgot we spoke.” Don’t leave memory to chance—gentle reminders matter.

Mistake #4: Networking Only When You Need Something

Schedule fifteen-minute “non-urgent” chats monthly. Share what you’re learning, ask how you can help, and document interests in a simple CRM. Future you will thank present you for showing up early, often, and without pressure.

Mistake #4: Networking Only When You Need Something

Set recurring reminders for birthdays, work anniversaries, and project milestones. Congratulatory notes and small check-ins keep connections alive. Comment below if you want my evergreen reminder checklist, and subscribe for the full toolkit.

Mistake #4: Networking Only When You Need Something

Join niche communities where mutual help is the norm. Contribute resources, run small meetups, and celebrate others’ wins. Communities multiply goodwill faster than one-off pings. Share your favorite community spaces so we can feature them.

Mistake #4: Networking Only When You Need Something

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Mistake #5: Ignoring Weak Ties and Serendipity

Sociologist Mark Granovetter’s research shows weak ties spread new information faster than close circles. Reach beyond your usual crowd to access fresh roles, ideas, and introductions. Try one event outside your niche this month.

When someone says, “We need more leads,” they might mean better qualification, clearer messaging, or new segments. Ask clarifying questions before suggesting solutions. Comment with your favorite clarifier and subscribe for our listening guide.

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