The #1 Networking Mistake People Make (It's a Game-changer)
I want to shout this networking mistake from the mountaintops.
Because there’s a game-changing shift that will get you better results faster.
Yet almost no one does it.
Before I get to the game-changing shift, let's talk about the mistake: waiting to talk to people until you've figured out exactly what you want.
The problem with this approach is that it keeps you in your head.
And in that beautiful head of yours, along with all the great ideas, is a sh*t ton of limiting beliefs that hold you back from seeing the full spectrum of career possibilities.
And it's a vicious circle: the longer you put off the conversations, the longer it takes to figure out what you want.
The #1 Networking Mistake People Make
The worst networking mistake you can make is to put off your conversations, especially if you don’t know what you want.
So what's the game-changing step? Using your networking conversations to get clarity and fill in the blanks.
I know, I know. You've been TOLD that you have to be crystal clear about what you want before you talk to people.
Maybe you've even been in conversations where people said, "Come back when you know what you want."
But that advice comes from people who take a transactional approach to networking (rather than focusing on leveraging relationships to co-create solutions).
These are the people that view networking only as a means to get something they want.
That’s such a cynical, narrow view of networking. #BadNetworkingJuJu
The good news: there’s a whole separate world out there of people looking for Talent who are ready, willing, and able to partner with you to figure this stuff out.
If you ask them.
Being Clear On Your Ask Is Not the Same As Having All the Answers
Yes, being clear on your Ask is one of 3 critical networking components.
But your Ask is NOT the same as having all the answers.
Most people—consciously or not—treat networking conversations like interviews.
Even though you might intellectually know it's not an interview, you bring that same tap-dancing-on-stage "pick me, pick me" energy.
This energy is WEIRD. It's artificial, stilted, and narrow in scope.
And it prevents you from having authentic, powerful conversations that lead to solutions you might not have considered.
Key Energetic Shift: Invite Them To Help You Find Answers
So here's the shift: rather than feeling like you need to walk into these conversations having allll the answers, and knowing exactly what you want, approach them as thought-partner conversations and invite the other person to help you find solutions.
Oh man, do you FEEL how different that energy is?
To me, it's freakin' liberating.
You get to be up front with what you know and don't know, the other person feels amazing and flattered to be asked for their help, and you walk away with LEADS, RESOURCES, and IDEAS--and maybe even the beginnings of a powerful relationship.
And guess what that engenders?
CONFIDENCE that you're on the right track.
"That's great, Caroline. How do I actually DO that???"
Well, my friend, I have a FRAMEWORK for that.
Not a script, not a pitch, but a framework that you can use to have the conversations you WANT to have...conversations that FEEL GOOD and lead to real opportunities.
I use this framework all the time to have powerful, fruitful conversations that feel energizing and fun—even beyond official networking conversations.
So does this person:
In fact, I got so much positive feedback on the content from my one-on-one coaching program, I created a standalone group coaching course focused on helping you have enjoyable, powerful conversations that lead to amazing career possibilities.
If you’re interested, get a sneak peek of my 6-week career change course.
Until then, check out these other networking mistakes (and game-changing shifts) including:
How networking conversations can position you as an authority even in a new endeavor (What?! I know!), and
How to talk about what you want clearly and concisely—even if you don't know what you want or are pursuing non-traditional career opportunities that don't have a clear job title
Meantime, let go of the idea of networking as something you can't do until you’re crystal clear on exactly what you want.
Avoid this common networking mistake—and lean into the game-changing step of inviting people into the process of helping you figure it out.
How good of a networker are you really? Take this quick quiz: How Strong Is Your Networking Game? to find out.
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Author Bio:
Before becoming a coach, Caroline had a successful career in management consulting and financial services. She's made it her mission to help people grow, contribute, and get wherever they want to go in their careers.
Caroline wants people to recognize how much power they truly have to define their careers. The life and career you want is truly possible once you have the roadmap. Take the first step by downloading her free 4-step career roadmap.
