How to Network like a Rockstar

Networking is all about connections. True networking goes beyond simple introductions and small talk at an event. True networking is just as the name implies: building a network of people connected through you.

The two immediate objectives of networking:

• Help others through your previously established connections
• Meet people who can help you in the present or in the future

Of course, the ultimate goal is to build long-term relationships, and those relationships take time. Starting with these two immediate objectives will provide a solid ground for a relationship.

Who needs a network? Anyone who wants to succeed in business! Your network will make things such as finding a job, getting on a board, or starting a business, much easier. The good news is you already have a network, whether you know it or not.

Your current network might include:

• Family
• Friends
• Friends of your family
• Co-workers
• Classmates
• Professors
• Neighbors
• Members of organizations you belong to
• Acquaintances you've met through a variety avenues
• People you've used for services (mechanic, doctor, photographer, etc.)

Brainstorm other people in your network. It's important to know the people in your current network and understand areas where you may need to build more connections. Remember, your first goal is to help others through connections. The options to help others are endless, and it's something you can start doing right now.

How you can help others in your network:

• Pass on their résumé to a hiring manager.
• Connect them to people who can provide them with services and deals. (For instance, you meet someone at an event who is looking to build an addition onto their house. Hook them up with your friend who owns a construction business.)
• Give advice on something you've experienced.
• Provide access to information or services that could help them.
• Give recommendations on products or services they might find useful.
• Connect them to others who can help them reach their goals.

You may be thinking that you don't know enough people to do this. But, you do. If you have a family member, a friend, and a co-worker, you're good to go! It's all a matter of figuring out how to make the connection and expand your network.

Look for connections; they are everywhere

If you so choose, you can connect with pretty much everyone you come in contact with. Everyone from the guy who owns the coffee shop you frequent to your hairdresser to your little sister's dance teacher. You can potentially help all of these people; and they, in turn, can potentially help you.

Be aware that not everyone is as savvy as you, and they may not get the whole networking thing. You'll try to make that connection with them by saying, "You're looking for a web designer? My husband is an awesome designer. Here, let me give you his card." And they'll just look at you, reluctantly taking the card out of your hand. They just don't get it. Move on and connect with those who do.

Attend events

Attending an event is one of the most formal kinds of networking, and also one of the most intimidating. For many people, it's not easy to walk in to a room full of strangers and just start introducing yourself. But, it is possible. In fact, it's one of the best ways to make a connection because you get a chance to interact with people face-to-face for the purpose of networking.

After the event, follow up with a quick email. "It was so great to meet you the other day. I really enjoyed hearing about your job. Your work is truly fascinating. Let me know if you want to take me up on that coffee sometime!" This kind of follow up is critical. Without it, your connection will quickly fizzle.

Online social networking

Social networking sites have truly leveled the playing field when it comes to networking with the bigwigs. Perhaps you would never dream of contacting an author who wrote a book that opened your eyes to a new world of possibilities. Now, through commenting on her blog, messaging her via Twitter, or connecting through Facebook, you can, without intimidation, contact her.

Social networking has also opened the door to connect with people who you probably would have never met in real life. As you develop an online relationship with others, you add them to your network. And, the next time they tweet something like, "Looking for a new job in marketing." You'll say, "I can help them with that!" And, you'll be a networking rockstar!

Don't stop there.

One of the hardest parts about maintaining a network is keeping up with everyone. You need to keep your connections fresh in order to continue the relationship. What you don't want to do is lose the connection and then try to rebuild it only because you need something. This can make the other person feel like you're trying to take advantage of them. They may think, "I wonder why he only calls me when he needs me." Don't be that guy. Stay in touch.

No matter who you are, you will benefit from a strong, quality network. So, get out there and start building!

Angela Marino is on a mission to help young professionals learn, grow, and succeed. At 27, she publishes Girl Meets Business, a professional development site for the up and coming.