Many people have a goal of “collecting x number of business cards,”  but these aren’t necessarily meaningful connections for you.  You should decide ahead of time what companies you want to work for, and find them, or find people who know someone who works at that company.

Create business cards with  your skills on the back of your card.  List what type of position you are looking for: “Marketing professional seeking a position where I will be able to make an impact in my areas of strength of social media, branding, strategy, advertising, and online marketing.” Add your web site address and an email address that is professional or represents you.  Do not include your home address on your card, but DO include your LinkedIn profile address and your Twitter ID.

Give people you meet three bullets about you and what you’re looking for. Be clear and concise  so they can remember what you said.

One of the parts of networking that is most difficult is how to end a conversation.  Suggestion: “It was great seeing you.  I look forward to crossing paths again.”

Bring a small notebook with you to take down follow-up notes, and send everyone you meet an email after the event.  Categorize the people you met into the following groups:

A – Action – need to connect them with someone

B – Want to have coffee with

C – Whenever/If Ever – Nice conversation but no immediate need to connect with them