13 Networking Mistakes

Thinking you know what you want is not the same as knowing it. Treat networking the same way you would an appearance at Carnegie Hall. Practice your pitch as well as your answers to questions about your career goals that might arise.

You wouldn’t come unprepared to a job interview. Well, each point of contact with someone professionally is like an interview. If you’ve set up a one-on-one meeting or business lunch, research your contact and her company in advance. This will prepare you to add value to any conversation and be engaging so you don’t come off as a leech.