10 Networking Tips

'Tis the season for networking. Are you doing it right? Judith Bowman, author of "Don't Take the Last Donut: New Rules of Business Etiquette," offers tips for getting the most of your networking.

1. Eat First. You are not there to eat.
2. Drink sparingly, if at all.
3. Approach singles and groups. They are most likely to be open to your advance.
4. Maintain an approachable facial expression. Practice in the mirror or with a trusted friend if you are not sure how your natural expression looks to others.
5. Shake a lot of hands: thumb up, lean in.
6. Prepare a tag line: name, rank, and business affiliation.
7. Take your time; do not rush. Take advantage of this opportunity.
8. Concentrate now. Take notes later away from others' purview.
9. Follow up via e-mail, personal note and/or telephone, even with those you do not believe can help you now.
10. Offer to help others. You are there to contribute as much as benefit.