Although it may seem counterintuitive, mastering the art of networking requires you to first understand what networking is NOT.

• Networking is not about schmoozing, a term that implies insincere flattery and attention.
• Networking is not about having two meetings, then asking for a career boost.
• Networking is not about exploiting others to get what you want.
• Networking is not about you.

To put it bluntly: networking has never been and will never be about you.  Networking is about developing a genuine curiosity towards others and finding ways to add value to their lives.  The essence of networking intelligently is captured in a quote by Winston Churchill: “You make a living by what you get; you make a life by what you give.”  Those that understand the golden rule of networking (that it’s about giving value to others) will attain great success.  Those that don’t will walk a lonely way.