Peter Trombetti of Oficio Group discusses who NOT to be at a networking event.

1. Who NOT to be at a
Networking Event
by Peter Trombetti
Oficio Group

2. Importance of a First
Impression
Your introduction is the first thing someone thinks
about you
It’s a make or break moment with that potential
connection
It sets the stage for all your future interactions
Networking events usually allow for only quick
interactions and introductions. So don’t be one of
these guys…

3. The Name Dropper
Don’t immediately go into who you know
Comes across as disingenuous.
Do you want them to remember your name? Or
the people you’ve met?

4. The Card Dropper
Dropping your card off
is not an introduction
People are not going to
keep that card without
knowing who you are
Comes across as rushed
an impersonal

5. The Assumer
Don’t always hand out 2 cards to one person. It’s
presumptuous and assumes they are going to
pass it on
Get to know that person first, then ask them for
referrals when you have established a
relationship

6. Rambling Man
Don’t get overexcited
No one wants to hear you life’s story
Or the story of how you got to the meeting
Or how you met your spouse…

7. The Limp Fish
No one likes a weak
handshake
It can come across as
weak and/or
unprofessional
Practice a firm, yet no
overzealous, handshake

8. The Steamroller
The opposite of the limp
fish, the aggressor comes
across as over confident
Don’t barrel your way
through the crowd and
steamroll other people’s
conversations
Be respectful and jump
in when the moment is
right

9. The Technology Zombie
Don’t spend all night on your phone
It comes across as aloof and unapproachable
Pay attention and leave your phone in your
pocket
If you have to be available via email or phone,
check it as infrequently as possible

10. Thank you!