By Remy Raitt

The word ‘schmooze’ itself even sounds smarmy and when networking opportunities are squandered for self-serving purposes, more than just reputation points could be lost. Business leads and existing contacts could also be jeopardised.

What’s the difference?

“I feel that networking is the process of developing long-term mutually beneficial relationships with people, and schmoozing is more ‘light and fluffy’ in that it focuses more on small talk, one-sided benefits for the schmoozers and does not have the reputation for being the most genuine act,” says Gabbi Rego, director at urban espresso. She believes that blatant schmoozing can look like “ego-gratification” which comes off as insincere.

Networking on the other hand is just that; work. It’s a two-way street that should profit both parties. In an article for Huffington Post, Colette A.M. Phillips says when networking it’s important to focus on what each side will be gaining from the interaction. “In fact,” she says, “when it comes to networking it's better to err on the side of giving than receiving.”

The life span differs too

“Networking is an ongoing process,” says new business developer at Newsclip, Hannes Joubert. “If done right, it can definitely bolster your career as it builds report with your peers and other influencers in the industry.” He says schmoozers, on the other hand, are often seen as “fly by nights”. He believes they can come off as opportunists who don’t offer the people they are interacting with anything constructive, and therefore aren’t likely to leave a lasting impression.

Back your business, not yourself

The impression great networkers leave is that they care about their industry and want to share this with those they come into contact with through genuine connections. “Effective networking can open doors you never imagined,” says Rego. “It helps you expand your circle and contact base, and can be great for new business leads, if done tactfully and genuinely.”

Instead of sharing their own contacts or offering valuable insight, schmoozers are after fans, they want to impress without thinking about the end goals.

Playing the long game

Seeking this kind of instant gratification does not work in effective networking. Phillips says expecting to make instant friends or connections is naïve. “The most you can hope for at an initial meeting is to make a connection. With follow up and careful nurturing over time, a connection could blossom into a very fruitful relationship,” she says. “The key is to view networking as a long-term career strategy and to be diligent about following up with contacts.”

This follow-up contact should be done in moderation. She suggests jotting down some relevant information about your initial meeting, and then, after a week has passed, drop them a mail and continue the mutually beneficial interaction.

Networking is for everyone

Successful networkers also know that there is no such thing as one kind of worthy connection. While schmoozers may only target the big wigs and obvious hot shots, networkers make time for everyone. “According to the experts you should network laterally, vertically and horizontally,” says Phillips. “Never underestimate the power of the grapevine, good information sometimes comes from the places you least expect it.”

Do you believe there’s a difference between networking and schmoozing? Tell us in the comments section below.