Whether you’re a young professional or an industry veteran, networking is a key to advancing your career and making a name for your company. In an article from entrepreneur.com, the author takes a look at five networking fails listed below, why they aren't helping you and ways to correct your approach. 

1. Being overly aggressive
What to do instead: Instead of giving a sales pitch on your business, ask questions about what other people do and really listen.

2. Focusing only on the big cheeses
What to do instead: Make sure you are getting time in with the people you came to see – the speaker, the expert, the peer who invited you – but circulate and get to know the new faces. They might have more useful information or connections than you think.

3. Trying too hard to impress
What to do instead: Focus on sharing your knowledge on certain topics and recent industry news instead of trying to brag about your resume. Be yourself and you’ll ultimately make more connections.

4. Staying quiet
What to do instead: It might be overwhelming to be in a place where you don’t know anyone else, but don’t let that stop you from approaching people. Try walking up to someone you may recognize or find someone standing alone and start a conversation.

5. Not being prepared
What to do instead: Go into a networking event prepared to talk about what’s important to you. What do you want others to know about your business? What information do you want to walk away with?