Networking is an essential communication art that allows you to create synergies of talent and collaboration to generate new projects. Faced with the prospect of a new professional cycle, in Formation and studies We encourage you to eliminate these errors in the way you make contacts.
1. Networking is more than intelligence
Many people consider that networking starts from an intellectual attitude, from an exchange of knowledge. However, remember that before being a professional you are a person. Therefore, do not let go of your true essence. Try to empower the wisdom of your heart to foster these personal relationships.
2 Do not waste your time
Don't waste your time with people who steal creative energy from you. People who constantly complain about their luck, or who do not value you as you deserve. Networking is not an objective that is defined by the number of contacts but by quality. Therefore, try to weave a social network of motivated people around yourself.
3. Links die if you don't feed them
Why are you not interested in having infinite contacts? Because materially, it is impossible to dedicate time to these ties to cultivate them. You have to specify and select your personal preferences. For example, on the occasion of the Christmas holidays you can get in touch to wish those people happy holidays.
4. Narcissism
It is important that you value what you can contribute to others, however, networking is feedback that starts from the experience of giving and receiving. If you allow yourself to be carried away by the narcissism of believing that your ideas are the best, then you do not leave room for others. Encourage humility, see a contact as an ally from whom you have a lot to learn.
5. Have no goals
Obviously when networking you can't control all the details. However, you can control what depends on you. For this reason, it is positive that you set goals and objectives for yourself. Thanks to the objectives you also improve time management. Otherwise, you run the risk of leaving networking to improvisation.
6. Confusing self-reliance with individualism
No matter how perfect your resume is, no matter how remarkable your talent is, see your potential as a value that increases from constant collaboration, the solidarity of knowledge and teamwork. Don't confuse self-reliance with individualism in the strict sense of the word. Loneliness exhausts ideas.
7. Neglecting your personal brand
Currently, you have many resources to achieve this goal. For example, through a YouTube channel you can spread your knowledge on the subject in which you are an expert. You can do the same through a blog. And social profiles are also essential digital resources to boost your personal brand. A digital identity that is essential for networking since you are your main asset in this area.
8. Confuse networking with friendship
Maybe some of your contacts end up being your friends, however, it is not something that happens by way of cause and effect. It is essential that you understand the difference between the two plans so as not to place the expectations you place on your friends on your contacts.
"The networking book: The 15 keys to socializing successfully", a book by Cipri Quintas Tomé is an excellent read that you can enjoy to improve your skills.