How does one distinguish between genuine interest and ulterior motives when networking?

Distinguishing between genuine interest and ulterior motives requires careful observation and assessment of an individual's behavior over time. Genuine interest is characterized by consistent engagement, reciprocal communication, and a focus on building a mutually beneficial relationship. Individuals with genuine interest ask thoughtful questions, actively listen to your responses, and offer support and assistance without expecting immediate returns. They demonstrate a genuine curiosity about you as a person and are interested in your perspectives and experiences. Ulterior motives, on the other hand, are characterized by self-serving behavior, a focus on personal gain, and a lack of genuine interest in building a reciprocal relationship. Individuals with ulterior motives may excessively flatter you, ask for favors or introductions prematurely, or primarily focus on discussing their own accomplishments and needs. They may also exhibit inconsistent behavior, such as being attentive only when they need something from you. Trust your intuition and pay attention to patterns of behavior to determine whether someone's interest is genuine or driven by ulterior motives. For instance, if someone consistently asks for favors but never offers assistance in return, it's likely they have ulterior motives.