Some people like to listen to music while they work. I like to watch Netflix.

A recent obsession was Ugly Betty, and the other day it actually paid off.

I was watching/listening to an episode in season 3 when I got a lesson. Bad guy Connor gave Betty some quick advice about networking:

"Networking is one of those annoying things, but if you're serious about your career it's something that you have to do."

So true, right?!

Networking is not something I've ever been particularly great at, or something that I usually enjoy. At least not until I start doing it. But, like exercise, the hardest part is always starting, and once you get to doing it, it's usually pretty fun!

All you need is a few quick tips, brought to you by Ugly Betty's Marc St James, unslimed by yours truly:

1. Forge a bond
   

   Connect with the person that you're approaching. Tell them you love their blog or shop (if you actually do, don't lie) or that you like their shoes. Breaking the ice isn't as hard as it seems, and everyone loves and appreciates compliments. It creates an immediate bond that opens the door to further conversation.

2. Gather information
   

   Inquire about the person you're chatting with. Ask them questions. It is not all about you. I once received a fantastic tip about networking: people have a natural tendency to really like people who let them talk about themselves. So, listen, and they'll probably like you. It's a little backwards sounding, but it works.

3. Exit strategy
   

   Though Marc's reasoning for this tip is a little sleazy, it can be seriously unsleazified. One issue that I constantly battle is finding someone that I like so much that I'd be much happier just sitting and chatting with them all evening. But, that's not what networking is.

   Develop an exit strategy that will allow you to get away from the folks you like without leaving them feeling scooted on, and get back to networking. The best way to keep interest in folks you want to chat with more is to make plans for later. Plan to get drinks after the event, or lunch the following day. Or a follow-up Skype date. Then, get back to circulating.

So, there you have it! A few lessons about networking from Ugly Betty. As we're nearing a big move, I'm very excited about the prospect of networking with a new group of people again.

Tweet this: Networking Lessons from Ugly Betty by @indishopography http://bit.ly/T1W8dj

And I'd like to hear from you! What are some of your favorite networking tips and tricks?