Five networking mistakes to avoid

MarketWatch.com

Networking requires strategy, research and social grace. But as competition for jobs remains high, it’s easy to fumble.

“Remember that you have two ears and one mouth, and use them in proportion,” said Bobbi Moss, general manager at Govig & Associates, a Scottsdale, Ariz., recruitment firm. 

Networking is about building relationships, not simply selling yourself or looking for personal advancement at each meeting.

“People have talked to me for only a few minutes, and then asked if they would be the right fit for a position. That’s too aggressive,” said Suki Shah, chief executive of GetHired.com, a new jobs site based in Palo Alto, Calif.

Here are five networking “don’ts."

Don’t misuse the Internet

Don’t be vague

Don’t stop

Don’t be selfish

Don’t misuse your network

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