Networking presents unique challenges to women in business. Amanda Steinberg from DailyWorth offers insight about how to tackle two issues.

Trap #1: One problem that businesswomen face while networking, is the possibility of being hit on by male colleagues.

Fix-It for Trap #1: When considering how to proceed in these uncomfortable situations, Steinberg recommends thinking about the professional relationships’ long-term goal. She offers the following script to respond to passes by male colleagues:

“I’m so flattered that you feel that way — thank you (sincerely)… but our business relationship is really important to me. I’m concerned that if anything happened, things would eventually get really weird between us, so I have to say no. I hope you understand.”

These words provide a concise, simple way to respond to an uncomfortable situation without making the recipient feel embarrassed or angry.

Trap #2: A rookie mistake women (and men, actually) make in the networking realm – over sharing while connecting with other businesspeople.

Fix-It for Trap #2: “Discretion”, she says, “has its merits”. Less is more.

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Knowing how to deal with inappropriate comments and keeping the conversation meaningful but not burdensome are two ways to significantly improve your ability to form appropriate, meaningful connections.