Today, using referrals to find jobs is more common than ever. In order to save time and money, companies are relying more and more on current employees to help them hire new ones, according to this article published in the New York Times.

However, making common networking mistakes can prevent any job seeker from getting hired. When it comes to looking for a job, there is no room for error, especially in a time when everyone is competing for the same job you are applying for. Here are some common networking mistakes to avoid in your job search:

1. Forgetting About The Power Of Face-To-Face Contact

Job seekers “want to do everything online, without actually pressing the flesh and meeting people in person,” said networking and communications technology expert, David Strom. “There is no substitute for getting out there and introducing yourself to people who might know someone who is hiring.”

An article written by Ruth Mantell on the Wall Street Journal website titled “Networking Mistakes We Often Make” agrees with Strom’s deduction. Job seekers are misusing the Internet by relying too much on its networks and forgetting there is less room for rejection when meeting with someone in person (no unanswered e-mails, for example).

Arranging real meetings is especially easy with CityHour app. It’ll check your calendar and will let you know who’s near and looking for a meeting in the next 2 hours. You can also refine your search around specific industries and meeting goals.

“Go to at least two or three such meetings a month, and bring business cards and introduce yourself to these people,” said Strom. “Don’t be shy, even if you aren’t the most outgoing person, talk to one or two strangers at such meetings, and see if you can find common ground.”

2.Expecting Too Much Too Fast

In his article on Inc.com, “Top 5 Most Common Networking Mistakes,” author Jeff Haden writes that it is important to not ask for what we want from networking contacts right away. We’ve got to give before we get.

Take some time, get to know your contact, and see what skills or services you can provide for that person. Try not to think about what they can do for you just yet. The goal is to broaden your network and make meaningful connections so that they can help you later. So, start networking early.

3. Not Having Enough Patience

Building a professional relationship is a lot like a romantic one – fragile. That being said, you shouldn’t be afraid to work hard to build relationships. According to career coaching website, Success Coaching, one of the top networking mistakes is a lack of patience in conversations and wanting to pitch your sale from the beginning.

You have to build up to your pitch. Focus on the other person for awhile and find ways where you two can continue to connect.

4. Not Saying Thank You

In an article on Forbes.com titled “4 Networking Mistakes You Don’t Know You’re Making,” the author highlights that not showing gratitude to your networking contacts can make a negative impression. That’s not what you want to leave others with.

Since life can get busy and it’s easy to forget to send out a thank you card, setting a reminder on Gmail to say thank you can help you remember to show your appreciation to your newly acquired professional contacts.

If you use CityHour app, at the end of the meeting it’ll ask you how’d you like it. It’s a good reminder to follow-up your new contact with a “Thank You” note.

5. Not Dressing Appropriately

Whether it’s a networking event you are attending or simply meeting a contact for lunch dressing professionally is something you should always keep in mind. You’re trying to get a job, not go out on a casual date with friends.

Dan Woog, wrote on Monster.com that “A networking meeting can be a rehearsal for a job interview, but no one will help you get your foot in the door if you give the impression that you’ll slouch through it once it’s open.”

Remember, you have to look and act the part so you can convince others that you’re ready to work and be a professional.

About The Author

CityHour is a brand-new business networking app for professionals who strive to be far more effective at networking. Business networking has many advantages. You can use business networking to explore career opportunities and to expand new business development, as well as – among other things – form new partnerships with like-minded professionals.

Download CityHour is currently available to download on iPhone. In fact, you can head on over to the App Store right this second and grab it for free.