On occasion two or three meaningful conversations can lead to one firm opportunity rather than a collection of six or sixteen business cards. Some networkers suggest that when you meet someone, you should give them two of your business cards, rather than one, as they may then give your card to another of their contacts. There is a danger with the two card offer, as it can result in both your business cards being discarded, as the recipient has no interest in your business and decides against passing on your card. If, however, you are asked to give additional cards, as I was recently, this is definitely worth doing, as there is a high likelihood of your card being passed on, NOT binned.

Continue shaking hands, exchanging business cards, and, yes, do improve the quality of your discussions when networking!

I know that I used to hate it – and in the networking class I teach, my clients talk about “dread, dread, and dread.” It’s really hard for most people, even senior-level executives, to walk into a room where they don’t know anyone.

And many of the so-called networking experts make it even more difficult by suggesting that people set goals of meeting X number of people, and talk about “working the room” (ugh!).

Networking is crucial to success, and I applaud both Gwen Rhys and Elizabeth Harrin for making the point that it’s really about “building and leveraging relationships.”

If you meet just one interesting person at an event with whom you choose to follow up, that’s a terrifically successful event. And it’s important to keep that in mind when you’re faced with all those rules about handing out business cards and meeting as many people as possible!