Networking is easy and nothing more than meeting people

Myth: Once you have connected with someone at a networking event, the hard work is done.

Reality: Following up with the people you connect with is the key to networking success. Always do something to maintain that connection. The initial follow-up saying how nice it was to meet them and spend time chatting is a must. Adding their contact information to your address book or adding them to your LinkedIn, Facebook, or Twitter accounts is the next step. Then, whatever it is, find something to keep the connection going. Take an interest in what they are doing and look for opportunities and reasons to email or call them. But be sure your reasons are reasonable, viable and appropriate. Nothing is worst that communicating with someone with inappropriate or boring information and/or comments.