Please Don’t Call it Schmoozing
I know it seems like I’m just being defensive,but really, schmoozing has such a negative connotation that no matter what tone of voice you use, it makes networking sound like a bad thing or a chore. Networking isn’t a chore, it’s how business runs and things get done.
Being Negative Doesn’t End Well
Even if you are happy and smiling, referring to networking (especially at a networking event) as schmoozing makes other people remember you for it. When they reference that memory later you will be the one who stands out for calling it that, and by default, you will be seen as the one who was schmoozing.
If you are seen as the negative person, that does not bode well for follow-ups or referrals. No one wants to work with someone that they feel was having a negative experience while they met.
People Won’t Trust You as Easily
When you use terms that are jargon, especially negative jargon, people pick up on it. If you were a lamb in the woods, all innocence and hope, you wouldn’t refer to a networking event as schmoozing. You wouldn’t even know the word. You will be seen as a more hardened networker and that can lead to people thinking you’re less trustworthy.
Even if you manage to turn them around later, even if they get to know you and become friends, you wasted time up front giving a bad impression of yourself. It’s just not worth it.
Tags: distrust, follow up, jargonRelated Stories
POSTED IN: Business Networking, Networking Tips
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