"People Hopping"
The Nierenberg Group and New York University's Management Institute conducted a national survey, which asked working professionals to share their worst experiences while connecting with new people. The survey revealed that the number one problem is rudeness when people quickly size others up and then abruptly move on.
The results reveal "the people hopping syndrome" where participants at networking events abruptly stop talking with someone and disappear when they see there is nothing to gain from the other person.
The survey confirms what many people feel about networking: that it's a numbers game to connect with more people, collect more business cards, and then move on. It's the worst thing you can do because first impressions are the ones people remember. Unfortunately, it's tempting to move on quickly when you feel that the person you are speaking with cannot be helpful to you. To avoid "the people hopping syndrome" keep these tips in mind at networking functions:
- Maintain eye contact: Consistent eye contact will give you a high level of credibility. So even when you do need to end the conversation the other person will feel that you showed genuine interest throughout the interaction.
- Ask more than you tell: Think of open-ended questions to ask the other person. As the conversation continues, ask follow-up questions based on what the other person is telling you. Avoid hard hitting questions that relate to finding a job or business leads.
- Have an exit strategy: If you really feel that this connection can be of mutual benefit, say, "It was great meeting you. Perhaps we can continue our conversation over lunch or coffee." However, even if you are not interested in staying in touch, say something like, "I've enjoyed hearing about your company. Enjoy the rest of the evening."
Most importantly, to end the conversation, give people a firm handshake while looking them in the eye and smiling. It's the best "last impression" you can make.
Participants across the United States answered: ”What is the worst thing someone did while networking with you?” Of the nearly 300 responses, these five represent the majority of the participants’ answers:
- ”Moved on quickly after realizing I was not a prospect”
- ”Left in the middle of the conversation to approach someone else”
- “Kept scanning the room while we were speaking”
- “Ignored everything I was saying while looking around”
- “Never stopped pushing what they were trying to sell.”
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