Networking Made Easy

1. Be Open Source
   Introduce contacts, never hoard them.
2. Master the Firm Handshake
   Because wet noodles always flop.
3. Don't Trash Talk Others
   It makes people think that they are next on the chopping block.
4. Always Offer Your Business Card
   They are still used and they are still effective.
5. Always Get Their Business Card
   So you don't rely on them for follow up contact.
6. Use Your First and Last Name When Introducing Yourself.
   Don't be just another "Ann."
7. Know Your One Liner
   Describe what you do in one pithy repeatable sentence.
8. Use Your Professional Photo
   When connecting on social media, people want to see your photo, not your baby's or a company logo.
9. Keep it Positive
   Save the car payment talk or your dog's medical issues for close friends.
10. Be a Helper
    Like any currency, make introductions for others and they will make them for you.
11. Have a Signature Style
    Dresses always. Fun necklaces. Hair in a bun. Choose one and stick with it.
12. Listen as Much as You Talk
    Never leave a conversation without learning something.
13. Don't Stick to Those You Know
    When at an event or business setting, branch out.
14. Keep In Touch
    Make it simple. Email an article that made you think of them.
15. Seize Social Media
    Each platform is a new channel to bond with your contacts.
16. Ready. Aim. Fire.
    Target dream contacts and reach out to them cold via email or tweets.
17. Be Persistent, Not Pushy
    Contact with frequency but don't stalk.
18. Read Body Language
    If you see them retreat physically or offer a blank nod, change course.
19. Make New Friends But Keep the Old
    Stay loyal to your original contacts. Don't leapfrog your way to success.
20. Be Gracious
    Thank others for invitations, introductions and any other helpful act.
21. Pay it Forward
    Networking is not an eye for an eye game. Help others and they (not necessarily the same others!) will help you.
22. Don't Oversell
    Better to form a relationship and follow up with your pitch later.
23. Bring People Together
    Host a gathering - a WAHM dinner or clients who love chess.
24. Say Yes to Invitations
    The more out of your comfort zone you go, the more new contacts you will meet.
25. Don't Take it Personally
    Pay no heed to a one time slight. If it happens more than once, forgive and file.

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