Networking: What you have to do to make that connection

Networking is not exactly rocket science, nor is it an entirely impromptu experience. There are still basics to cover in order to make a conversation an actual connection in a networking event. 

1. Get off your desk and be out there: There are a lot of networking events, or events with networking opportunities. Go out there to mingle and make a connection. You won't be able to do that at your desk in front of a computer. Face-time is still king in making a genuine connection.
2. Forget work, just talk: Don't ever pitch the moment you are introduced to someone in a networking session. Establishing a meaningful connection means that you have to have a conversation with a person. Don't make it 'forced'; just act naturally and have a decent conversation. You'll be surprise how it can lead to something fruitful in the future by being just a little bit casual.
3. Set mini-goals: Set bite-size goals, like meeting 2 new contacts for coffee in a week, or touch base with 5 new contacts within the next 2 to 3 days. Set 'small' goals that can fuel your sense of accomplishments towards your overarching goal of achieving your business objectives when making a connection.
4. Mind your manners: Having manners count a lot. Just being able to listen more can do wonders in attaining a positive reaction with a connection.
5. Be aware of your weakness: If you experience the occasional memory lapse of failing to follow-through with a connection, then make sure you set up a system to minimise it. Use an app to remind you, or develop a set of routine that will ensure of reminding you to contact who and what for.
6. Don't lose that business card: Ever experienced losing a potential connection because of being careless of where you put his or her business card? Make sure you place all your cards somewhere where misplacing it is minimised. Maybe you just have to be more diligent by keying the contact details in a database.