We alltryto do it, but approaching networking like an aimless productivity robot is bullshit.

Just make a run at be a normal person and meet people.

In my experience, here are the rules of networking:

1.

Networking is bullshit.You don’t “web connection,” you meet people.

Get out of the results-oriented mindset and enjoy the conversations.Be a goddamn human about it.

Put down your phone, because…

2.

Comfort zones are bullshit.The only internet worth having is one that has a diverse group.

Wide and shallow is the name of the game.

Leave your silo and make friends with people who are utterly unlike you.

Twitter and Facebook can shield you, which is why…

3.

Social media is bullshit.Talk to peoplein the real world.

Try and talk to everyone at the event.

They like old Benzes and you have a friend who collects them?

Don’t give out your card unless asked, because…

5.

“Let’s talk later” is bullshit.They’ll never follow up with you.

The ball is firmly in your court.

Yes, because…

6.

You never stop selling.

You never stop shipping.Your life is vibrant, fascinating, and fast-moving.

Every week, you have new people to connect and new developments to tell others about.

And you do so.

Your regular contactsbuilds friends.

Your excitement makes them want to listen.

Your activity spreads the word that you get things done.Conversations aren’t “How are you doing?

Fine, how are you?”

They’re real, visceral, and worthwhile.

“How do I get better at networking?”

you’re able to follow Quora onTwitter,Facebook, andGoogle+.

This answer has been edited for grammar and clarity.

Image adapted frommurphy81(Shutterstock).

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