Let's get this out of the way right away - Networking IS for everyone.

I hear it all too often: "Networking isn't for me" or "I am so uncomfortable around strangers."The list of reasons why networking isn't always easy could go on and on. But remember, we all started as strangers, and meeting someone new is as simple as a handshake, smile and introduction.Lyndsey Frigm, of the Greater Valley YMCA, is a successful networker. Frigm uses networking opportunities through her chamber membership to build relationships."As a professional fundraiser, networking is what I do, but that doesn't mean it's easy. It takes considerable bravery and energy, even for the most outgoing of us," she says."My job is to build relationships and realize resources - one person at a time, one story at a time. Networking is one way I build those relationships, and absolutely a way by which I maintain them."Kathy Matson, tasting room manager at Galen Glen Winery in Andreas, knows the importance of networking. "In today's economy, advertising budgets are small and word-of-mouth marketing is still the best way to let others know what a company is doing. Networking is more than meeting people. It's building relationships. When you build relationships, your new friends become your WOM sales force, telling their new friends about you, and in turn, you share about them and their businesses."Matson makes it a point to attend at least one networking event a week."It's like a gathering to catch up with old friends and meet new ones," she said.Alicia Kline, co-founder of Turn To Us Inc. in Jim Thorpe says that networking is and will continue to be the key to the success of the new nonprofit."We have been introduced to a wide range of companies and other organizations that can utilize our services for their staff and clients as well as in their personal group of friends and family," Kline said."While the networking events are always a blast, we are doing hard work. We are making personal connections with potential donors. They get to meet us, hear our mission, listen to our personal whys, and see our passion - which is contagious. This is invaluable for when we need sponsors for events as I can reach out and they already know how important our services are and hopefully have a connection to us."Networking Tips:• Be prepared - If you don't talk to them, chances are that someone will come up to you and ask "what do you do?" Avoid uncomfortable silence by being prepared with a 20-second commercial about you and your business. Making your "elevator speech" fun and unique is great ice breaker. Also, have plenty of professional business cards that include your name, phone number and email address as well as your business name and address.• Practice - So, you've written your elevator speech and you've rewritten it a time two. Don't forget to practice. When it comes time to meet someone, you will be comfortable and confident.• Connect - Networking is all about making connections and personal connections based on what you are passionate about are genuine and long lasting. Talking about your kids' school, local organizations that you are involved in, or the latest book you are reading can help you connect on a personal level.• Follow Up - New relationships are just beginning. Follow up by writing a short email (Nice to meet you, hope to see you again soon) or phone call to let your new contact know that they made an impact on you. This could be a great time to meet up for coffee or lunch and have a more in depth business exchange.Remember:• Be on time• Bring plenty of business cards• Wear your name tag• Networking is not sales, it's relationship building• Be genuine and honest• Smile.Invest in your future by giving back to organizations and nonprofits. The most successful networkers are on committees, serve on a board of directors, volunteer and scoop ice cream at the county fair.The CCEDC can help you get involved with plenty of volunteer opportunities throughout the year.Alice Wanamaker is the member relations director for the Carbon Chamber & Economic Development Corporation.