5 Signs You’re Being Too Clingy with Your New Professional Connections

Networking is key to success in any field, but there’s a fine line between networking and clingy. You can easily scare off potential connections with your over-the-top behavior if you’re not careful. Here are five signs that you might be being too clingy:

1. Don’t call or email them too often

Getting carried away with a new professional connection can be easy, but avoiding coming across as too clingy is important. Calling or emailing them too often can be seen as needy and desperate, which is not a good look. Try to limit yourself to one or two weekly communications, and mix up the mediums (e.g., call, email, text) to keep things interesting.

2. Respect their boundaries

Respecting someone’s boundaries means understanding their limits and respecting them regardless. If you’re too clingy with your new professional connections, you may cross the line and end up offending them. It’s essential to be sensitive to their needs and give them the space they need to grow the relationship in their way.

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3. Don’t invade their personal space

If you find yourself wanting to get closer and closer to your new professional connections, STOP. Don’t invade their personal space – you’ll only make them uncomfortable. Keep your distance, and respect their boundaries.

4. Avoid talking about yourself all the time

You must always avoid talking about yourself to make a good impression on your new professional connections. Instead, ask them about their work, interests, and life. This will help you build a strong relationship with them and show that you’re interested in them as a person, not just as a colleague.

5. Don’t ask for favors right away

Even if the person seems friendly and accommodating, taking things slow is important. You don’t want to come across as needy or desperate. Wait until you’ve developed a stronger relationship before you ask for a favor.

Wrap Up

Making a great first impression is essential, but don’t overdo it. Remember that people like their personal space, and you should give them time to get to know you. Don’t be the person who calls or emails every day, or worse – shows up at their office unannounced. If you want to make a good impression and stay top-of-mind, try sending an occasional thoughtful email or text message instead of bombarding them with communication. Apply these tips, and you’ll be well on developing solid professional relationships without being too clingy.