The purpose of networking is knowing what people do to succeed, and letting people know what you are useful for. It helps if you can keep each other contact information as well.

However… first think about how many people you have contact information from, or how many people have your contact information. Think about how many of those know what skills you have, what you can do. Try to remember if you know what skills they have. Most people can’t answer those questions about everyone on their contact list — I know I can’t answer it from all.

I have found it is easier, and more productive to start networking with someone you already know.