Have you ever felt that some networking attempts just don’t work? I’ve been there. After nearly twenty years as a financial analyst, I realized that the first half of my career was full of mistakes. I watched others effortlessly attract opportunities while I collected business cards that led nowhere.
It took time to notice what set successful networkers apart. Many of us come from working-class backgrounds, and we often make similar errors. Wealthy individuals use different networking strategies that remain unspoken yet keenly felt. Here’s what I’ve learned through my own missteps.
First, dropping your elevator pitch right away can backfire. You know, that quick summary of who you are and what you do? Sharing that immediately can make you seem desperate. Wealthy people want to build a connection before diving into business. Instead of launching into your pitch, try a simple response and shift the focus to the other person.
Then there’s name-dropping. Mentioning every big name you’ve met doesn’t impress—it often comes off as trying too hard. People can sense inauthenticity. Building real connections is more important than casually dropping names that don’t relate to the current conversation.
Another common trap is treating every interaction like a transaction. Approaching someone with the mindset of “What can they do for me?” reads as opportunistic. Authentic connections matter to successful people. They want to get to know you as a person first, not just as a potential business deal.
Be careful not to overshare about financial matters. Whether complaining about student loans or bragging about a salary increase, specific money discussions can create awkwardness. Wealthy people generally prefer abstract discussions about finances, avoiding personal details that may come off as inappropriate.
Asking for favors too soon is another pitfall. Many think they should immediately seek introductions or advice after meeting someone valuable. However, seasoned networkers recognize that relationships are built on mutual value over time. Without first showing what you bring to the table, you risk appearing self-serving.
And then there’s the issue of self-deprecation. Apologizing for your presence or downplaying your worth can make you seem insecure. Confident people understand their value. When you stand tall, others are more likely to recognize your contributions.
Finally, consider how you follow up. Sending lengthy emails right after meeting someone or waiting too long are both mistakes. The best approach is a light and personal touch. A simple message revisiting a topic you discussed can go a long way in maintaining the connection.
Networking often crosses class lines, requiring us to adapt to unwritten rules that aren’t explicitly taught. These mistakes come from our backgrounds, but once recognized, they can be changed. Real networking is about building genuine relationships, regardless of what someone can offer you.
It’s about being genuinely interested in others rather than just trying to be interesting yourself. When we treat others as equals, the best connections often arise from unexpected conversations. Focus on authenticity, and success will follow.
