Grandma told you to never talk to strangers. Grandma was wrong.

If you want a relationship, you have to go on a first date. If you want to get a job, you have to go on a job interview. Nobody likes it, but that's just the way it is. And if you want to meet new people, you have to talk to people you don't know. 

Networking consultant and author Dave Delaney says it has to be done because if you don't grow your network, you're gonna have a tough time growing your business... or even getting a job.

In the overwhelming deluge of information buyers (and hirers) face each day, it's hard to stand out and get noticed without a personal connection. 

Networking is your secret weapon over the algorithms that control what your prospects see every day.

Dave talks about the importance of and strategies for mingling online and offline networking. You have to follow up online with people you meet offline. And better yet start following up before you ever even get there.

You can read all about Dave's networking tips in his book New Business Networking, and he talks about how he got the book deal in the first place.... by talking to strangers.