8 Mistakes to Avoid in Any Job Search Networking Meeting

Networking meetings are critical to your success in getting into the hidden job market. Phone meetings are fine but don’t miss an opportunity to have a real meeting whenever you can.

Here is a checklist of 8 mistakes that could cause them to regret agreeing to meet with you.

1. You trash your old boss, company or other people working there

You never know all the connections people have, so how will you know if you’re trash talking your previous boss, and sitting across from his brother-in-law? What if you’re complaining about the spending practices and you’re setting across from a potential investor? Even if you have stories funnier than those on The Office, it’s in your best interest to archive them for a long time.

2. You talk about your dream job in terms of salary, vacation and benefits

If you want people to take you seriously and maybe even refer you to their important network connections or to a job they know about, you will want to skip the part where you talk about a job in terms of benefits, vacations, making a lot of money, etc. Of course those things are important, but for now, focus on what you bring to the table, what results you can create for a company who hires you, what impact you want to make, etc.  That approach will make them feel more comfortable about referring you to a contact or a job.

3. It’s all about you

When I first started learning about networking into the hidden job market, I was pretty desperate for a job. So my first instinct and strong desire was to talk about my agenda—what I needed, wanted, etc. Slowing down to do a little small talk and building a bit of a relationship all seemed like a waste of time to me.

But of course I was wrong. It’s essential to build relationships. Be genuinely interested in them, and they will do likewise.  If they don’t? Well, no need to keep them in your network unless you really like them anyway!

4. You don’t offer to buy

My networking mentors taught me: The one who asks for the meeting asks for the check. So that’s another reason a casual meeting at a Starbucks is perfectly acceptable. If they insist on paying there’s no need to arm wrestle for the check but remember to return the favor somehow sometime.

5. You Play It Too Casual

Just because you’re meeting in a casual place, don’t let that influence your decision on what you wear. Dress to influence that thing we all do—form first impressions very quickly.

6. You Don’t Turn Off Your Cell

Turning off your cell can endear you to any one you’re networking with, in any situation. Unless there is some emergency notice you’re waiting for, let the other person know they matter by turning off your cell and anything else that might go beep. If there is an emergency situation, be sure to mention it up front so you don’t appear insensitive to this critical courtesy.

7. You’re Late

It doesn’t really matter how awful or entertaining your excuse is. Being late is still a major turn off. In many areas, people will give you some “traffic” slack, but only a little and not every time.

8. Your follow up is a no-show

First, a good old-fashioned handwritten thank you card or note can make you uber-memorable. If you don’t want to be that much of a standout, an email works also. People probably won’t wipe you out of their blackberries just because you didn’t thank them for their time, advice, referrals, etc. But they might not be as eager to help you in the future. It’s about relationship.

And if you’d like some networking scripts to help you get people to meet with you, help is here!

Get a free report: Hidden Job Market Networking Scripts. Start to break into the hidden job market right away. As an ex-reluctant networker, Katherine Moody shares today’s down to earth techniques for getting into the hidden job market.

Sincerely,

Katherine Moody

http://HiddenJobMarketSecrets.com

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