How to Be a Superstar at Networking

What you need to know to jumpstart your career.

You Can Deal With Your Drama - Sometimes we drink to numb ourselves from our issues. Being sober can be overwhelming, but you will be in the mindset to move forward and get the emotional help you may need. (Photo: JOSE LUIS PELAEZ, INC./Image Source/Corbis)

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You Can Deal With Your Drama - Sometimes we drink to numb ourselves from our issues. Being sober can be overwhelming, but you will be in the mindset to move forward and get the emotional help you may need. (Photo: JOSE LUIS PELAEZ, INC./Image Source/Corbis)

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It’s About Who You Know, Too!

Eye-to-Eye - A firm handshake and direct eye contact are first impressions that really count in the long run. It gives off the notion of being personable, confident and trustworthy. (Photo: Jose Luis Pelaez Inc/Blend Images/Corbis)

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What’s “Networking?”

Keep Your Distance - As we get older, we realize not everyone is meant to travel the journey of life with us. As much as it pains us to let them go, sometimes the best solution is to love people from afar. If you do have a one-on-one confrontation with them, make it short and sweet. (Photo: Klaus Tiedge/Corbis)

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Start With the People You Already Know

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Don’t Be Thirsty Or an Opportunist

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Attend More Professional Mixers - Meeting new people can be really hard, especially if you are shy. So think about joining professional groups that bring young professionals like you together in social places and conferences. (Photo: Tim Robbins/Mint Images/Corbis)

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Attend More Professional Mixers

Always Be Prepared - I met a woman on a plane who 6 months later wrote me a $1,000 check to help support my thesis film. I never thought a plane ride could be a networking opportunity, but I was prepared with a copy of my film and a card. The lesson: Always be ready wherever you are.(Photo: Randy Faris/Corbis)

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Always Be Prepared

Get Linked on Social Media - Whether it’s LinkedIn, a site for networking and job searches, or being members of professional Facebook groups, the Internet is a great way to get connected to people. (Photo: Justin Sullivan/Getty Images)

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Get Linked on Social Media

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Don’t Be Scared