Basic Networking Suggestions

Don't look at your phone: It's rude and disrespectful. If you want our attention while you're talking, we deserve the same from you.

Contribute something if you plan to come regularly: How can you help the Network without overstepping? If it's a great group and you believe in it, it's worth the effort.

Don't bring your laptop: How can you learn about us if you're browsing? It gives the impression you're too busy to listen and you're only there to tell us about yourself.

Give help or advice if asked: You're there to meet, greet, and mingle with those you want to know. It's all about expanding your horizons.

Don't talk during presentations: It's rude. Give the speaker the floor as we will give it to you. Having a conversation during someone's allotted few seconds is unacceptable.

Take the time to welcome new visitors and have a conversation. Help put them at ease as they're unfamiliar with the group.

Don't walk around during presentations: You're showing disrespect to the person speaking and it's distracting for those listening.

Does the group need food? Drinks? Help setting up or tearing down? Be someone we all need. It's often a few people who do all the work. We notice the ones who don't.

Don't talk longer than the allotted time: It cuts our group networking time short when you go over the limit.

Giving your attention, your support, your respect and your presence will prove you're a professional.

Don't interrupt the person presenting: They may lose their train of thought and falter.

Shout out to those who helped you in some small or large way: Appreciation is not over rated. It's the essence of valuable networking.

Don't leave after you give your presentation: It's a sure sign that you aren't interested in what others have to say.

And I can't emphasize enough, turn off your phone or better yet, leave it in the car.