This may seem ultra obvious but experienced networkers got where they are because of their experience networking.

Whether you're a novice networker or a seasoned pro, only one thing is going to make you better: Networking more.

For the newbie networker networking is probably a pretty uncomfortable act. So was driving when you first started. Over time you did it over and over again and now you probably don't even think about it anymore. With enough consistency and effort over a period of time your networking skills can become just as second nature.

Nearly all of us learn best by doing. You could read everything there is about driving, but until you get behind the wheel and do it for yourself you're not going to be very good at it. The same is true of networking. You could read all of the networking books and blogs out there and still not be a very good networker until you get out there and do it for yourself. Now I'm not telling you to stop reading my networking blog, but I'd much rather you actually go out and network then sit there at your desk reading this.

If you're a more seasoned networker the same still holds true. You can read this blog and get some great suggestions (if I do say so myself), but if you don't implement any of the tips or strategies I suggest they won't do you a bit of good.

In other words... Get out there and network. You'll be better for it.

Happy Networking!

Scott Ingram
NetworkInAustin.com