Networking made easier

Not everyone is comfortable networking. Yet networking is vital for business success in the 21st century. Grab a handful of business cards, rehearse your "Elevator Speech," and take these steps to become more at ease in networking situations:

- Set realistic goals, such as having a meaningful conversation with three new people.

- Push yourself away from the bar or sidelines, and engage others standing by themselves.

- Move from conversation to conversation - not too quickly, but with the goal of striking up another meaningful chat.

- Become a regular. The more you attend events, the more you'll build comfort, trust and familiarity.

- Remember: Everyone's there for the same reason - to build business alliances. Have fun.