1.  Silence your phone.  Set a goal to meet 10 new people for a 90 minute to 2 hour networking event.  Name badge goes on the right and is easy to read.  Shake hands, clearly state your first and last name. Networking 101

2. Getting in to a conversation: Direct approach:  Do you mind if I join you?  This looks like an interesting group… Fade in approach:  Stand at the edge of a group and enter the conversation when there is a pause.  Make a comment--on the location, the food, the music.  Ask how they are connected to the event. Networking 101

3.  Be interested and interesting. Have direct eye contact and body language that says, the person you are addressing is the most interesting person here.  Talk about general interest topics and avoid talking about politics, religion and health.  Exchange business cards and be prepared to follow up after the event. Networking 101

4. Getting out of a conversation: Direct approach:  It was nice to have met you  I will be sure to send you the link we discussed. Fade out approach:  If the group has become engaged in conversation without you, you can subtly exit  Switch—someone joins, you leave.  Refresh—get more food or drink.  It’s Your Turn—Bring someone in and exit. Networking 101