As they say, it's often not what you know, but who you know that can bring about benefits to your career and future prospects. Having a broad base of contacts in diverse fields is an essential requirement of getting places these days, and networking is a key way to find and develop these contacts.

For the lucky few, networking is a wholly pleasurable experience, but for the rest of us it can be fraught with difficulties. From confidence issues to knowing what to expect at a specific event, the networking process can be a minefield, but one with significant rewards. Whether it be internal or external, large groups or more intimate environments, here are some tips on how to get the best out of a networking opportunity.

Always be on the lookout for opportunities to network

Even if you are happily employed right now, it doesn't mean you can't network. You never know when circumstances might change, or what opportunities exist for you around the corner. Be prepared to put yourself out there at every possible occasion, and you'll be surprised at the results you get back.

Do your research

A sound knowledge base is the key to confidence, so don't be afraid to research the companies, individuals or events that you are wishing to network. In virtually all cases, any extra research will pay off on the day, and you may find yourself gaining an extra edge in the conversations you have because of this.

Be helpful: Always look for the win-win situation

Networking revolves around the meeting of like-minded people for social, personal or professional gain, so in order to be a successful networker, it is helpful to first define what it is you have to offer to others. Creating a win-win situation, where you have successfully exchanged beneficial information with someone else is the key to productive networking.

Connecting people: Establish links in the chain

You never know who might be helpful to you, or at what time, so be prepared to actively introduce people to others, even if there is no obvious immediate gain to you. Next time you arrange a meeting with a friend or business associate, try and invite another along, and connect the two together.

Pay attention, and use your ears more than your mouth

Everybody likes talking about themselves to a certain degree, so using your networking opportunities to listen to others is bound to make a more lasting impression. In addition, you'll learn more, and if you pay attention, you will be more likely to pick up on information that might be useful, either now or in the future.

Express yourself, and don't judge others

If you are involved in a networking opportunity, make sure that the people around you understand what you do. If they don't, they can't be expected to look for opportunities for you, so make your skills and talents clear. Try not to judge others based on their apparent usefulness to you, as you never know who they might be friends with, or go on to become themselves.

Be yourself

The most important aspect of any networking opportunity is that you remain genuine and reliable in your dealings with others. No matter how unconfident you may feel in certain situations, there is no point in being anything other than yourself. The biggest complaint about networking, is that it encourages a superficial and false persona, so be genuine and you'll find that you attract other genuine people.

Following up: Keeping the momentum

As with any relationship, contacts made through networking need to be followed up and maintained. There is no sense in making a good impression if you allow the relationship to wither through lack of subsequent contact. Stay in touch, invite them to a different event, introduce them to someone, or even just send them a news story that might be interesting to them. A little bit of follow up can go a long way to creating a true network around you.