4 Mistakes Gen Z Professionals Make When Networking
Introduction
Networking is a cornerstone of professional success, and Gen Z professionals, who are now becoming the main workforce, need to learn the essential skills to manage it. Being the digital-first generation, Gen Z professionals are more eager to use digital tools like NFC business cards over traditional paper cards. They use innovative tools and strategies to the table but are also prone to making mistakes especially when it comes to building meaningful connections. So, if you are a young Irish Gen Z professional, here are some mistakes to avoid while networking in the Irish business world.
Mistakes Gen Z Professionals Make And How To Avoid Them
1. Over-reliance on Digital Networking
There is no doubt that Gen Z is the master of digital tools and technology. But this also has a negative side, which is their over-reliance on these digital platforms! They rely more on platforms like LinkedIn, Zoom, and other social media platforms to make connections than on real face-to-face events. Virtual meetings don’t help build trust and rapport, especially with previous generations that meeting in person does.
This is why Gen Z needs to get out of its virtual meeting rooms and meet people through industry conferences, seminars, and other events. They can use tools like smart business cards to exchange information seamlessly, but they should also learn to meet people, shake hands and talk to them face-to-face. Only then can they engage in effective networking.
2. Treating Networking as Transactional
Gen Z is famous for their hustle culture; they measure everything—whether it’s a job, a business lead, or even advice—on how much profit it can bring to them. They carry this attitude when approaching networking as well and focus solely on what they can get out of the relationship.
And this is the biggest mistake they make. Successful networking is a two-way street. To fully utilise a network connection, you also have to bring to the table something that the other person is looking for. It can be something as simple as sharing insights to connecting someone to a relevant contact. You have to show a willingness to help the other person if you want to make an impression.
3. Failing to Prepare for Networking Events
A common misstep Gen Z professionals, especially those who are new to the profession make is not preparing for the event they are going to participate in. They often overlook the importance of knowing who will be in attendance, what kind of questions to ask, and how to prepare responses to potential questions. This lack of preparation is often reflected when they talk with someone and find that the conversation is becoming aimless without any value to anyone. It is a very unprofessional image that the Gen Z professional leaves behind.
This is why, whether you are attending a virtual event or a face-to-face one, you need to research first. You must have a clear idea of what is your goal for attending this event and who are the people you need to meet and greet.
4. Oversharing Information
Gen Z is a generation that has somewhat become accustomed to sharing everything in their life online. It has somehow become second nature to them. When it comes to the professional arena, they often make the mistake of oversharing. Whether it is their personal details, excessive professional information, or overwhelming new contacts with an overload of digital content—Gen Z professionals are often guilty of this mistake.
Modern tools like NFC business cards make sharing information easy and seamless. Moreover, the cards can hold all kinds of information and not just your contact details. This is why Gen Z often make the mistake of adding everything about them; their contact details, social media profiles, website links and more to their NFC card. But it can have the opposite effect; so to avoid that, just include relevant details tailored to the event or the person you are sharing with. Less is often more when making a strong first impression.
Conclusion
As a Gen Z professional, networking in 2025 should blend interpersonal skills with innovative digital tools like smart business cards. You should keep in mind that networking is not just about who you are meeting, but also bringing value to the table. So, avoid making these common mistakes and create a stronger, supportive network that will drive your growth forward.