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Article:

10 Networking Mistakes That Make You Look Dumb

Common Networking Blunders You Don't Even Know You're Making

1. You're Scatter-brained

Do you get distracted easily? Emails and voicemails targeted toward growing your personal network should be to the point -- focused -- with the goal of getting a face-to-face. Keep them brief: your name, your purpose and a next step Build interest. Don’t answer all the questions or you risk eliminating the need for further contact.

Record a strong and confident personal voicemail greeting. Upgrade your email signature. Proofread your emails with the idea that less is often more. Be professional.