A simulated business research was conducted by some academicians from across US universities to find out the correct approach while networking. It has often been considered that those seeking opportunities must deliver their pitch depending on the requirements of the potential clients or recruiters. This technique called “catering” proved to be unsuccessful across professionals and college students studied as it was soon realized that such responses were instead inauthentic and lacked confidence or belief. Also the one seeking the connect may simply misread the situation or what the other is looking for in any candidate. Authentic responses on the other hand develop better first impressions on average. So while scanning LinkedIn profiles, connecting with a potential recruiter at a job fair or networking with seniors within the organization, it is best to be true to oneself.

Source: https://hbr.org/2016/09/when-networking-being-yourself-really-does-work