Networking Etiquette

Networking Etiquette is about building respectful, authentic, and mutually beneficial relationships that can lead to career opportunities. Whether in person or online, following these principles will help you make a positive impression and foster long-term connections.

A great resource: The 20-Minute Networking Meeting by Nathan A. Perez & Macia Ballinger

Core Etiquette Principles

• Be respectful and courteous — Listen attentively, avoid interrupting, and use polite language. Show appreciation for their time and advice.

• Be authentic and genuine — People connect with real, relatable interactions, not overly rehearsed scripts LinkedIn.

• Be prepared and proactive — Research people you meet, have a clear purpose for your networking, and be ready to add value.

• Respect boundaries and preferences — Avoid overstepping personal or professional limits, and be mindful of cultural norms.

• Be generous and helpful — Share resources, make introductions, and support your network as much as you take from it..

Do’s

• Know your value — Understand what you bring to the table so you can communicate it confidently.

• Think win–win — Focus on creating mutual benefits rather than one-sided exchanges.

• Remember names — Use a note app or mental cue to recall names and details about people you meet.

• Dress appropriately — Match your attire to the industry and event setting.

• Use a professional tone online — Keep LinkedIn and other platforms polished and relevant to your career.

• Follow up promptly — Send a thank-you note or message after meetings to reinforce the connection LinkedIn.

• Always respect any names your contact provides — Get an OK before you use a person's name as a referral.

• Make sure you call people at times that are convenient for them — You may be an early riser or a night owl, but not everyone is on the same schedule as you. Be aware of any contacts who are in a different time zone. You won't score points by waking someone at midnight just to "touch base."

• Follow through on your promises — If someone asks for a copy of an article you've mentioned, jot that request on the back of her or his business card and send the article within the week. If you offer to give someone a phone number, make sure you send it. Even if you haven't made specific commitments to your contacts, communicate with them to stay visible. Send them a message or card at holiday time, ask them to lunch "for no reason at all," email an article you know they would appreciate. Think of creative ways to keep in touch.

• Thank everyone who helps you or provides you with leads — At any given meeting, you're bound to come away with at least three ideas or tips. Thank the people who offered them with a brief email, text message, one-minute phone call, or short handwritten note. It's wise to thank people for leads and ideas, even if their suggestions don't pan out.  Your contacts will appreciate the follow-up.

Don’ts

• • • Avoid sensitive topics — Steer clear of politics, religion, or race in professional settings.

    • Don’t interrupt — Let others finish their thoughts before responding.

    • Avoid excessive self-promotion — Keep the conversation focused on the other person’s interests and expertise.

    • Don’t rely solely on social media — In-person interactions remain the most effective for building trust.