Great Networking Tips from My 2-Year-Old

My best networking mentor is my 2-year-old daughter, Sabrina.

What?! What?! What?!

The best, I say.

When we go for a walk in our neighborhood, she is always invited to sit on someone's porch and have a glass of lemonade or some animal cookies. At the pool, kids willingly hand over toys they are playing with for her to have a turn. When we pick the boys up from school and all the youngsters are rejoicing in their freedom, she can be found in the middle of a game of tag.

What's her secret and how can those of us not so outgoing cop on?

First, she waves to pretty much anybody. If she sees somebody even slightly familiar, she says, "I see?" which means, "Will you take me across the street so I can say hi?"

Second, she has a pretty good memory for someone who still drinks from a sippy cup. She remembers people's names and what they like.

Third, she's not afraid to ask to join in when people are having fun. Remarkably, she does seem to have some boundaries so she's not overbearing.

Lastly, and this I take full and complete credit for: I bring her places. We go for walks almost every night. We go to the pool. She tags along to pick up the boys. She has plenty of opportunity to socialize and see familiar faces.

The next time you have to go to an event and are feeling a little reluctant to network, find your inner 2-year-old child (or picture mine 'cause she's as cute as can be), give a genuine smile and "hi" to five new people and when you see one familiar face, make a bigger deal over this person than the last time you saw them, do your best to remember their name and something they like.

If you're feeling brave, look around and find a group of three or more people who are having a lively conversation, go up and say with your biggest smile, "You look like one of the fun groups here, may I join you?" It's the grown-up version of being in the middle of a game of tag.