To make it in life, you have to make contacts.

Here are some tips to mind when networking:

Be sincere
The last thing people want is to feel harassed and used. When you acquaint yourself with others, don’t be pushy and arrogant; rather, be straightforward and sincere.

Be confident
People like to be associated with confident individuals. If you don’t have a spine, they won’t take the time.

Have an opinion
For people to trust you, they have to respect you. Therefore, it’s a good idea to keep yourself informed and always know what you’re talking about, rather than just looking like you know what you’re talking about. Your point of view might not always coincide with others’, but at least they’ll respect you for voicing it.

Don’t kill the conversation
There is such a thing as overdoing it in a conversation. When you have been speaking for a little while and there isn’t much left to say, exit the conversation smoothly and move on to other people. You don’t want to be caught in a silent gaze with someone you just met.

Leave on a high note
In addition to not talking too long, make sure you end the conversation on a positive note. If you crack a couple of jokes a la Jay Leno and the person seems to like you, there is no need for encores. Simply get the contact info because the show must go on.

Blend in
During social gatherings, you have to blend in with your surroundings and adapt. You don’t want to create a ruckus, but you don’t want to be a fly on the wall either. Learn to associate with others while maintaining your personality.

Don’t ask for favors
One of the most common mistakes people make is appearing too eager and in dire need of professional help. But think about it: People don’t gain anything from assisting helpless souls that reduce themselves to begging. They want to help confident characters that pull their own weight and simply request information and guidance.

Asking for information and tips will get you much further than asking for something to be handed to you on a silver platter. Work toward your goals, but ask for some help along the way.

Search for a mentor
Developing a mentor/student relationship can be very healthy and beneficial, as the mentor looks after his protégé and takes pleasure in guiding him. If you ask to be set on the right track, most people will be glad to help.

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