8 Tips For A Successful Networking Coffee Date - CareerEnlightenment.com

5. Remember: desperation isn’t cool.Nothing turns off another person more than desperation. Making a connection should come naturally. Try not to force yourself on the person you’re networking with. This individual will be able to tell if you’re desperately trying to weasel your way into an opportunity or if you’re truly looking to connect with them. Show your interest by spending time asking questions about their current work, career, or industry.6. Focus on developing a relationship.Making a lasting networking connection depends on building a relationship. One coffee date with someone doesn’t solidify a relationshipâ€"it takes energy to successfully connect with others. Spend time getting to know this person and learn as much about as you can. If you’re truly interested, you’re off to a good start and a networking relationship with surely follow.7. Respect their time.Keep your networking date on a schedule. If you tell this person you’d like to chat for 30 minutes, then you should wrap things up in the appropriate amount of time. If you’ve connected and you’re still chatting well past the scheduled time, this may be a good sign.8. Keep in touch.End your networking chats by talking about staying in touch. Consider talking about getting coffee again or even asking if they’re planning on going to an industry event you’re interested in attending. Once you’ve left the coffee date, shoot them an email thanking them for their time and be sure to continue to reach out to them. Connections need to be mutual.In-person networking can be scary at first, but face-to-face connections are certain to positively affect your career. Set up a networking coffee date today!Do you have a trick for better in-person networking? Share below!