Networking Manners

DO

Prepare before attending a business gathering. Learn who will be there, plan your objectives, and research topics that might be discussed.

Plan to spend about five to seven minutes with each person and then move on.

Expect to learn something from everyone you meet.

Introduce yourself with a practiced one-line description of your business.

Wear your nametag on your right shoulder, which is the natural place for people to look when they shake your hand.

DO NOT

Make a sales pitch at a networking function. You'll be considered pushy, desperate, or inexperienced.

Monopolize one person; your goal is to meet many individuals.

Do all the talking. The information you gather by listening at networking functions is invaluable in forming working relationships.

Pass out business cards as if you were handing out flyers. Wait until the end of a conversation and deliver each card personally.