“Networking.”

Has there ever been a term that strikes fear into the hearts of so many?

Whether you’re actively looking for a job, passively looking for a job (Admit it; you know you are), or looking for clients, networking is where it’s at. It’s an important step in growing your personal brand.

But here’s the big, ugly secret: No one really likes networking. It doesn’t come natural for most of us – or so we think.

Actually we’re doing a lot more networking than we realize. Heck, even your church rummage sale is a networking opportunity if you think about it! But – how can you make sure that your next networking opportunity is worth the price of admission?

Here are some networking tips to get the most out of your next “in the flesh” networking event, or #IRL (in real life) as we say on Twitter. Why not take them for a test drive at AMA Rochester’s next networking event on June 10.

1. Arrive Early

Get comfortable somewhere near the door. The worst thing you can do is sit in the corner with your nose buried in your smartphone. Networking is kind of like fishing. You have to throw the hook out a few times before you reel in a live one. Be early, shake some hands, and be genuine. Of course, it goes without saying, but be sure to bring plenty of business cards!

2. Leave the Resumes at Home

There’s nothing worse than being at a networking event and having a resume foisted on you. Here’s a story from Sima Dahl, Marketing Consultant and Founder of Parlay Communications:

“The other day I was at a networking event and ran into a distant acquaintance who promptly announced he was on the job hunt and handed me a copy of his four-page resume, paper-clipped no less.”

Here’s a pro networker’s tip: Leave the resumes at home. Period.

If you meet someone who seems interested in helping with your job search, ask them for permission to send a copy as a follow-up. Trust us, they’ll appreciate it!

3. Reconsider the Handbill

Since we’re on the topic of resumes…

This might come as a shock to some of you. I don’t want a copy of your resume. Unless I’m a hiring manager, a recruiter or I know one, your resume is useless to me.

Want another hard truth? Chances are, I’m not even going to read it.

It’s not that I’m not interested in helping you with your search. In most cases, I’m happy to. I just need to know some basic things, including your:

• Target job – at a high level, what is it you’re seeking to do
• Experience recap – briefly, where you’ve worked and what you’ve accomplished in your tenure
• Ideal industry – geography, company size or other employer parameters
• Wish-list – companies where you’d love a connection

A one-page handbill might just be the perfect follow-up to a great networking conversation. Ever have someone say, “I may have a lead for you,” or, “You know who you should talk to”? This is a great time to ask permission to send your handbill or “search summary” as part of your online follow-up.

When they’re done well, a handbill makes it easier for me to help you in your search – it’s a win/win! Hit “The Google” to find examples online.

4. Follow-Up with Everyone

This is one piece of the networking equation that often gets overlooked – and it can earn you a ton of respect. It doesn’t matter if you spoke at length or only briefly exchanged business cards on your way out the door. Make sure that you follow-up online and keep any promises you made to share additional information. And remember, an email is nice, but a LinkedIn connection lasts longer!

5. Set Aside Time to Unwind

In-person networking can be hard work and can be an uncomfortable exercise for many people. Sure, there are some who get a kick out of networking. But, there’s plenty who would rather stick a hot poker in their eye than schmooze with strangers.

Whichever camp you fall in, be sure to set aside time to recharge your batteries. If you’re feeling a bit worn out or beat up during the event, excuse yourself and head to the restroom for a quick, quiet recharge. Grab a glass of wine (not too many!) and move to a quiet part of the bar for a minute. When you’re feeling better, get right back into the mix!

Just in time for you to practice these great networking tips, AMA | Rochester is hosting a great event on June 10 at Butapub. Get details and register to attend here.

Pieces of this article originally appeared on AMA.org, the members-only site of the American Marketing Association. For more information on how to join this vibrant and growing community, take a look at www.jointheama.org.