Here are five cringe-worthy statements or actions I’ve observed in networking meetings or Zoom sessions. They’re the kind of things that make everyone silently wince:
- “Let me tell you about all my products right now…”
Turning a networking conversation into a personal infomercial is a quick way to lose attention AND respect. Nobody wants to sit through a sales pitch before forming a connection. - Hijacking the Conversation:
“I know this meeting is about introductions, but can I take the next 10 minutes to talk about my upcoming event?”
Nope. Respect the agenda and the time of others. - Oversharing Personal Details:
“I just had a big argument with my spouse before this call, so I might be a bit off…”
While authenticity is valuable, there’s a line between relatable and awkwardly personal. - Failing to Mute at the Worst Moment:
Background noise is one thing, but hearing someone yell at their dog or take a bathroom break? Unmute responsibly, friends. - “I don’t think this group will be useful for me.”
Sharing this sentiment (even if true) out loud shows a lack of professionalism and burns bridges you might need later.
Networking and Zoom meetings are prime opportunities to build trust and rapport. Avoiding these faux pas can make a world of difference!