Networking mistakes all entrepreneurs should know and avoid

Success as an entrepreneur can boil down not just to what you know, but who you know. Knowing the right people can help open doors you may have otherwise missed. However, there a few mistakes which can absolutely kill a networking opportunity. Here are 7 of those mistakes and how to avoid them so you can develop a strong professional network:

Employing a Hard Sell

One of the worst things you can do at a networking event is to shill your product as hard as you can. You are not there to sell your product, you are there to make connections, so focus on that. Talk about your product only in passing, and only go in-depth when someone specifically asks you to do so.

Being Negative or Complaining Too Much

Some light criticism in the form of banter can help create rapport with a stranger, but be careful. Criticism, negativity, or complaining can easily go too far. People could easy interpret your comments as poor manners, which can ruin any chance of connecting with them. Err on the side of caution and focus on positive comments.

Interrupting People

Basic politeness is a must when networking. Knowing how to act properly in company can indicate to people that you know what you are doing and know how to do it well. That's why you should avoid interrupting people or conversations. Even if they weren't discussing anything critical or important, you're still interrupting them and being rude. That can put off people from interacting with you, limiting networking opportunities.

Dressing Poorly

Face-to-face networking events are critical to your efforts as an entrepreneur. While chatting online can work, nothing can truly replace being in front of someone. However, many entrepreneurs make the mistake of not dressing for the occasion. Most networking events will let you know what the dress code is, but if not, you should opt to dress in smart casual. At worst, you will look more put together than everyone else, which is not a bad thing and will likely work in your favor.

Talking About Yourself Too Much

When it comes to networking, it's all about everyone else. You can talk about yourself in your introduction, but for the most part, focus on finding out more about your peers. Not only is that more charming, it will tell you which people to pursue for professional relationships. If someone asks, talk about yourself, but offer no more than necessary.

Drinking Too Much

Many entrepreneurs make the mistake of drinking too much. While a little alcohol can serve as a social lubricant, too much can lead to embarrassment at best, and burning down bridges at worse. You want to be at your best when finding new professional relationships for your startup, and drinking too much keeps you from that state.

Speaking Poorly About Professional Relationships

The absolute worst thing you can do at a networking event is to speak poorly of clients or your partners. It does not matter whether your assessment or comment is accurate - the fact that you are talking behind their back is a poor look. Doing so makes you look unprofessional, and may put the idea that you would do the same to whoever you are speaking with.

Those are far from the only mistakes you can make at networking events as an entrepreneur, but knowing about them is a good start. Networking can make or break your small business. Make it work for you, and you will have a bright future in front of you.