How to Deal With an Annoying Networking Contact - The Muse

How to Deal With an Annoying Networking Contact - The MuseHow to Deal With an Annoying Networking Contact Recently, one of my co-workers was telling me about a problem she was having. Shed offered to help a former colleagues with their job search, but even after referring them to a few positions and offering suggestions for breaking into her field, they leise kept bothering her for help. My guess is that they didnt want to pick her brain, but rather they wanted her to just send over an offer letter at our company.My co-workers a considerate person, but shes also a busy one- I know because I sit near her. So, while initially shed been thrilled to help someone, after the fifth time they bugged her, she became annoyed.Have you experienced a similar situation? If so, youd probably agree with me in saying that the person is really just burning a bridge. So, what do you do when someones constantly asking you for something and you just cant give anymore- whether its because you truly dont h ave the time or because you have no more to offer them? Heres how I suggest you handle it Be DirectThe person wants something- so dont be afraid to directly ask them what it is. Because if they continue to beat around the bush, itll just continue to waste more of your time. It can be as simple as saying, Id love to help you out, but Im not sure what youre looking for. What would you like from me?Then, once you know what they want- whether its an introduction, a recommendation, advice, or some other favor- you can decide whether you want to (or can) give it to them. More on how to turn them down below.Politely DeclineEven if youre super close with someone, youre allowed to say no- seriously Remember This person isnt paying you to help them out. And, especially if they arent giving you something in return (at the very least, buying you coffee or referring you to someone they know), they dont have a right to your time.There are numerous ways you can turn someone down and still maintain a positive relationship. This article is helpful if it was a one-time favor. These seven canned responses cover everything from opting out of an introduction to rejecting a networking meeting. And unterstellung templates can help you say no to all those emails you wish you could ignore.Cut Them OffSometimes, you can say no, and the person just wont listen. Or, you can punt the request to someone else and the person will still come back to you for guidance.In these situations, its probably in your best interest (and sanity) to stop the madness altogether. As Editor-in-Chief Jenni Maier says about professional bridges youre allowed to burn, Do her a favor and offer a little networking advice. Tell her this isnt the best way to keep in touch, and youd hate for her to- get ready for it- burn any bridges. While she may be embarrassed, shell ultimately appreciate the advice. And hopefully, leave you alone.If bluntness doesnt work, I give you permission to ignore or ghost them completely. Sure, it may force them never to talk to you again, but if they dont respect and appreciate what you have done for them, theyre not worth keeping in your network.In an ideal world, networking would be a two-way street- you help someone, they help you back. But unfortunately, youre going to come across people who expect more from you than they deserve.It may be tough to dodge their requests, but by doing so, you ultimately teach them a valuable lesson on whats acceptable when networking. And, you free up your time to work on things that truly matter- and we could all be doing that a lot more.