Networking is simply the cultivating of mutually beneficial, give and take, win-win relationships. It works best, however, when emphasizing the "give" part.

What is so interesting about giving is not only that it pays, but that it pays in such unexpected ways. When you live with generosity, blessings come to you from corners and avenues you never would have expected.

Unless you are able to influence the way others think and act, your chances for success are limited.

Edify a person in advance for the positive traits you want him or her to have, and you'll find them making a concerted effort to live up to your praise.

The most valuable gift you have to offer is yourself.

Exposure plus 95 cents might buy you a decent cup of coffee. The key is to 'position' yourself in your market as the expert, the resource, the only person your prospect would ever even THINK of doing business with, or referring to others.

Nobody is going to buy from you because you have quota to meet. They are going to buy from you because they see the value in doing so.