Many businessmen will tell you that more business decisions occur over lunch and dinner than at any other time, yet no MBA courses are liven on the subject. Management courses might have ignored it in the past but in today’s business world networking holds crucial importance. Net-working is an exercise you do every day and it does not matter that you are a professional or an aspiring civil servant. And to taste success in today’s world it’s very important that you network with the right specie. Here are few ways for smarter networking

1. BE CLEAR OF YOUR FOCUS
Knowing your purpose is the first thing. Think about what companies you want to target through networking and how you can identify connections that will lead you to those employers.

2. DO SOME RESEARCH
Efficient networking is also about having relevant information from them as and when there is need but don’t ask them if that can be had by doing a little basic research. The more you know about your contacts' companies and backgrounds, the more impressed they will be.

3. DON’T LOOK DESPERATE
You will only irritate your contacts if you will act desperate. Your contacts will be much more willing to help someone who is confident and capable than someone who's begging and whining.

4. DO LISTEN
It is very important for anyone to listen carefully and listen attentively and later think about what makes your contact say this to you. Take advantage of the technology and now with the advent of text messages, so key in those smiley’s on your phone after your meeting. They will appreciate it and will you keep you in their good books.

5. VALUE OTHER’s TIME
Don’t take advantage of someone’s time and drop in when they are busy with some important work asking for a small favor. Call up and ask if he/she has time to talk. When the situation allows, bide your time before launching into networking conversation.

6. DON’T USE NAMES
Just because you have managed to get in good books of the best in your field, don’t start showing off in social or business conversations about your achievement. If you are net-working to get through to an even bigger fish, get permission before using someone’s name to approach another prospective contact.

7. ADD MORE TO NETWORKING
In the long run, you will realize that your contact network effort will make you meet many interesting people who might benefit you in your personal life too. Thus, be careful with your use of the word networking. Do not advertise the fact that that is what you are doing. Instead, think of yourself as building relationships and seeking advice.

8. ACT SENSITIVE
Be sensitive to just how much a contact is willing to do for you and don’t push beyond that limit. Be persistent but not annoying. Taking undue advantage will only spoil your reputation.

9. OFFER HELP
Helping each other is the most important aspect of networking. Offer your help to your contacts and supply needed information whenever possible. It will only strengthen the bond.