Ten Rules of Networking

Networking events are part and parcel of a business person’s life. Next time you find yourself at a networking event, keep in mind these Ten Rules, and the people you meet will thank me:

1. “Network” isn’t something you do, it is something you build.

2. Meeting someone for five minutes at a networking event does not entitle you to become their “friend” on Facebook. Ever! Feel free to send them a LinkedIn invite, though.

3. It takes more time to recover from a weak handshake than it does to learn to give a firm one.

4. Your life story is far more interesting to you than to someone you’ve just met — and you’ve already heard it before.

5. Stories that start with, “This one time, I almost ….” are boring as hell. Learn to embrace experiences instead of avoiding them.

6. Never enter a conversation at a networking event with more than half a drink in your hand. Needing a refill is a great excuse to leave.

7. Asking “What do you do?” within a minute of meeting someone suggests your interest in them depends on their answer.

8. When you meet someone for the first time, make certain they don’t hear you complain. About anything.

9. The most underrated skill to possess at networking events is the ability to end conversations, not start them.

10. Never “network” to meet people. Network to help people.

Originally published at www.nonbillablehour.com on May 11, 2009.