By MOAA Staff

Networking relies upon a simple trait: The sincere desire many people have to help others.

But despite starting from this goodwill, some job-seekers still stumble in their efforts to network effectively. Alienating valuable contacts with poor behavior can not only burn bridges but scorch promising job opportunities.

Here are some of the most common offenses: 

1. Being a Leech

Networking is about more than what you want and need – it is a two-way street. Few things are more annoying than individuals who only hit you up when they need something.

Avoid the appearance of neediness, and above all, don’t appear to be selfish.

2. Lacking Support for Others

What have you done to help members of your network? For example, do you use LinkedIn to like, share, or repost content? Not only is this easy to do, but your contacts will see your active support of their efforts and be appreciative of your help in raising awareness of their professional goals.

Routinely look for opportunities – small or large – to support someone in your network. Where networking is concerned, it is important to fill your “well” before you need to use it, and your network will be happy to reciprocate when the time comes.

3. Wasting Their Time

When you request to meet with a networking contact, either virtually or in person, are you prepared? Have you already done your own research and prepared thoughtful questions – not just rounded up materials easily found via web searches or on the company website – allowing you to maximize their time?

Being prepared shows your appreciation and respect. Do not ask for the gift of their valuable time if you have not yet taken the time to reflect on how best to use it.

[RELATED: Join MOAA’s Career Networking Group on LinkedIn] 

4. Replacing Networking With Solicitation

LinkedIn is a tremendous networking tool that significantly stretches your ability to reach new contacts. However, it is more than a little irritating to accept a request to connect on the site, only to then immediately be asked to schedule a time to “discuss” a service or product.

Don’t confuse this dubious practice with networking. When there is not even a cursory attempt at creating a relationship, there is no reason for the recipient to care about what is being sold.

5. Not Saying ‘Thank You’

It seems obvious that you should thank someone who has helped you in some way. Unfortunately, it is not unusual for freely given advice or support to be taken, but not acknowledged.

A heartfelt “thank you” not only expresses sincere appreciation but encourages the contact to support you even more going forward. 

6. Going ‘Lone Wolf’

Some feel networking is not for them and prefer to go alone because they don’t want to feel like they are asking for a favor or special treatment. That could not be further from the truth: People genuinely want to help, but they can’t help if they don’t know what you are looking for or how they can assist.

Remember, networking is truly a team sport! 

7. One Set of Eyes and Ears 

You can’t be everywhere, all the time. Conversely, neither can others in transition. When you hear about an opportunity which may not be right for you, share with others who you think could see it as a potential fit. 

The more you do this, the more you are going to top of mind when they encounter those opportunities which aren’t right for them … but could just be your dream job!

Learn More With MOAA

MOAA career transition services and support include advising transitioning servicemembers on résumés, interview preparation, and salary negotiation, among other career counseling benefits. Learn more about all these offerings at our Transition and Career Center, and join today to take advantage of exclusive member benefits!

A version of this article was published in September 2020 and has been updated.