In the public relations career field, as well as in any other profession, learning to network --- and doing so effectively --- is vital.
When I say networking, I'm not referring to the contemporary style of social networking behind a computer screen, in which you merely gain a vague sense of your new contact. Rather, I'm referring to the old-fashioned, face-to-face style of networking. After all, you cannot form a strong relationship with a potential affiliate (be it a journalist, media representative or another professional associate) without actually knowing them.
Here are a few tips that will enable you to network like a pro: