I HAVE ATTENDED thousands of networking events and I am always surprised that most people don’t know how to network. Networking is definitely more than just hearing about an event and "showing up." It is one of the most important and successful means of growing your business, gaining new ideas and building professional, and many times, personal relationships. Personally, I can remember when I was 27 years old and went to my first networking mixer. At the time I was looking for open-minded employers who would hire my disabled clients. Some would say not an easy sell. It was always the relationship I was able to develop with the employer that sold them on my clients. Instinctively, I had started on the path to using the "Law of Attraction," and aspects of "The Secret," to bring to fruition what I wanted for myself and my clients. This was the beginning of what catapulted me into becoming known as one of Las Vegas’ premiere networking experts.

I believe the three most important attributes of a successful networker are: Attitude! Attitude! Attitude! What do I mean by that? Attitude about yourself; Attitude about your product, service or business; Attitude about others.

Attitude about yourself: Entrepreneurs are hard workers with courage, vision, perseverance and passion. This is one of the most essential things to remember. Entrepreneurs are powerful, creative and ingenious people. It is important to reflect this attitude as you network. Make a list of your special talents and what you have accomplished. Hold your head high, stand up straight and look people in the eye. Exude the confidence it took to get you where you are today and the confidence that you will go even further tomorrow. Remember, however, confidence is NOT arrogance. Confident people build relationships, arrogant people destroy them. Confident people not only inspire confidence in others, they are also able good listeners who help others feel confident about themselves.

Attitude about your product, service or business: Whatever your endeavor, you worked hard at it. You poured in love, blood, sweat and tears, raised funds, faced and overcame challenge after challenge, and you’re still standing. Whatever it is you have to offer, it is vital to other people and important that the community knows about it. Talk about your business with pride and dignity. You deserve it. You worked hard for it.

Attitude about others: You understand all the hard work it took to build your business. Be positive and supportive of others’ efforts and hard work. LISTEN to what others are saying about their business. Active listening encourages others to feel at ease, accepted and respected. Active listening means to really hear what is being said and to respond accordingly. Ask how you can help others in their business…and mean it! If you say you’re going to do something, make connections, etc., be sure to follow through. This also encourages others to do the same for you. A supportive and encouraging environment is created for everyone. Notice something special or interesting about the other person and mention it. Don’t be phony. Smart people can always see through that. Be sincere. There’s something special about everyone.

Before attending any mixer or seminar, do your homework. Be sure you have a short, interesting "presentation" of your business. Bring business cards and be sure that while being creative and interesting, they need to be easy to read. Brand name and contact information should be clear. You only get one chance to make a first impression and the first few seconds of meeting someone can make or break an interaction. Your appearance, handshake, smile are all part of the first impression. It’s the positive attitude that attracts the right relationships in business and all areas of life. Remember, like attracts like. Smile and you will get a smile back. You get what you give. Dress to impress. Make sure you are clean, neat, appropriately and comfortably dressed. Wear a "signature" item…an unusual pin, earrings, a special tie, cufflinks, scarf. Don’t be afraid to stand out from the crowd. You are unique. Celebrate your individuality. There is no one else like you on the planet and wearing something unusual can be a good ice-breaker.

Before attending any mixer, think about what it is you want to leave with: 20 business cards or 1 or 2 people that you actually connect with. Building relationships is the basis to any business deal. Be a relationship magnet. Be open, honest; eager to share your story and eager to hear others; eager to grow your business and help others build theirs.

Before attending any mixer, ask yourself some simple questions:

1. Why have I chosen this mixer/event to attend?
2. What does it offer that will give me my end desire?
3. Who do I want to meet?
4. Why do I want to meet that person?
5. What do I have to give back?
6. How will I give back?

So, you’re off and running! Whether the next mixer you hear about is your first or your fiftieth, networking is the most productive, cost effective, easiest, fun way of growing your business and meeting new and exciting people. Remember, everyone else is nervous also. You’re not the only one. If alcoholic beverages are being served…know what you can "safely" handle. A drink can calm down some nerves and open up conversation, but a little too much can…well, we all know what that can do.

Remember you’re at an event with huge potential for growth, both professionally and personally. Be smart. Be prepared. Have fun.