Imagine you’re at a network marketing event, chatting with a group about a trending business strategy.

You’re explaining a concept, and mid-sentence, you mispronounce a term.

Suddenly, someone interrupts—“Actually, it’s pronounced like this…”

And just like that, the conversation shifts.

Now, instead of people focusing on your valuable insight, the whole group is distracted by the correction. Even worse? The interrupter throws in, “Just wanted to make sure you say it right so you don’t sound dumb.”

OUCH.

How would you feel?

Sure, it’s nice to know the correct pronunciation, but did it really need to happen in front of everyone?

Probably not.

And what about the person who corrected you?

They probably weren’t trying to embarrass you. But guess what? They did.

And even if you’re confident enough to brush it off, you’ll likely never forget how they made you feel.

Here’s why this matters in network marketing: Little social mistakes like this can kill your ability to build relationships.

The “Social Slip-Ups” That Can Destroy Your Business (And How to Fix Them)

Most people don’t mess up on purpose.

They don’t wake up thinking, “Today, I’m going to make people uncomfortable and turn them off.”

But when it comes to building relationships, recruiting, and leading a team, even small missteps can push people away.

I used to think, Well, that’s just how some people are. You either accept it or move on.

But here’s the truth: Being great with people is a skill.

And in network marketing, your income is directly tied to your ability to connect with others.

Here are some of the biggest social mistakes I see in this industry—and how to avoid them.

1. Talking Too Much About Yourself

You meet someone new, and within five minutes, you know their entire life story… but they haven’t asked you a single question.

Ever been there?

Look, I get it. You’re passionate about your business. You’re excited. But if you want to build trust, make the conversation about them, not you.

Instead of launching into a sales pitch, ask questions like:
✔ “What got you interested in this industry?”
✔ “What’s the biggest challenge you’re facing right now?”
✔ “What’s your long-term goal?”

People love talking about themselves. If you’re the one who listens, you become magnetic.

2. Coming On Too Strong (And Scaring People Away)

There’s a fine line between confidence and overpowering energy.

If someone expresses even the slightest interest in what you’re doing, and you immediately flood them with messages, links, and “Join my team now” pitches… you’re going to lose them.

Think about dating.

Would you propose on the first date? Probably not.

Building relationships in network marketing works the same way. Warm them up first. Provide value. Build trust. Then, when the timing is right, invite them to take the next step.

3. Not Understanding Social Cues

This one is HUGE.

Some people don’t realize when they’re making others uncomfortable.

Here’s a quick test:

✅ If someone gives short, one-word answers… they’re not interested. Stop pushing.
✅ If their body language shifts away from you… they want to leave the conversation. Let them.
✅ If they change the subject… follow their lead.

The best network marketers aren’t just great talkers. They’re masters at reading people.

Want to Get Better with People? Start Here.

If you’re serious about growing your network marketing business, mastering social skills is non-negotiable.

And I’ve got a few powerful resources to help you:

📩 Want to learn how to email influential people—and actually get a response? Watch this:
👉 https://netwave.africa/email-influential-people/

💡 Ever been to an event and struggled to make connections? This video shows a dumb mistake many entrepreneurs make at conferences (and what to do instead):
👉 https://netwave.africa/meet-new-people/

🔥 Want to build unstoppable confidence? Check this out:
👉 https://netwave.africa/how-to-be-confident/

Now, I want to hear from YOU.

What social mistakes do you see people making in networking or prospecting?

📌 Do they come on too strong?
📌 Do they seem too timid?
📌 Do they tell terrible, never-ending stories?

Drop a comment below—I’d love to hear your thoughts!