You can learn these principles, too, and develop a style of networking that is more natural for you. Here are the Eight Principles of Networking Naturally.:

Principle #1: Successful networkers are relationship-based, not transaction-based.   Networking requires an investment in time and effort to create long-term relationships.

Principle #2:  Successful networkers have a genuine interest in people, as people. They see past an impressive title, powerful position, or profitable business opportunity and spend time getting to know the whole person from that person’s interests outside of work to what books she likes to read to who she is as a parent.

Principle #3: Successful networkers listen more than talk. They are curious and prefer to learn about the other person before saying much about themselves.

Principle #4: Successful networkers offer up value before asking for anything.  They give without strings attached and are confident in their ability to give. They interact with others from a mindset of “How can I help you?” yet also know their boundaries in order to avoid burning out.

Principle #5: Successful networkers know that networking happens anywhere, anytime, not just at “networking events.”  Networking can happen at the dog park or in the dentist’s office just as easily as at an industry conference or social gathering.

Principle #6: Starting out, successful networkers treat everyone equally. They see individuals not as “more than” or “less than“ but rather “better at” or “worse at” different things.  They don’t let egos get in the way of connecting with others.  Likewise, they are not afraid to approach people as people, independent of their positions of authority or stature in society.

Principle #7: Successful networkers focus on building trust.  They keep their word, act with integrity, and treat the relationship with care.  They create trust by being authentic and trustworthy.

Principle #8: Successful networkers are gracious. They give others the benefit of the doubt and don’t take things personally. They are sensitive about making the other person uncomfortable. These eight principles may sound like a lot more than networking.  That’s because successful networking requires each of us to be the type of person that we would want to meet: someone with a generous spirit, an open mind, and an authentic voice.  Practice all eight of these principles (yes, it only works if you put them into action!) and watch how developing mutually beneficial relationships enriches every part of your life.