6 Tips to Make Networking Less Painful

We've all been in a networking situation where making conversation feels absolutely painful and you want to secretly hide under a small table (or is that just me?). Over the years. I've found some really easy ways to generate authentic conversation and begin building relationships. The most important thing to remember is that it's always worth getting to know a new person. You may not have a direct route to do business with them right now, but countless times old connections have turned into fruitful relationships when the timing was right. Here are a few tips to alleviate the stress of networking, whether it's with professionals in your own industry, or total strangers.

Ask questions and make...