Do you go to networking events to promote your business or make new contacts? Do you ever get frustrated when you take a couple hours out of your day to go to an event, but don't make meaningful connections? Here's a step by step strategy that has helped me make great business connections:

1. At the event make sure to meet as many people as possible. Have a short but meaningful conversation with each person you meet there. The goal is not to get a sale, the goal is to get key information.

2. Build rapport, ask questions, and gather information. Your goal is not to talk about yourself, although you