Networking can increase your net worth because you can gain new ideas and meet new people. Speaking to one person can potentially give you access to more people as you get outside of your box of comfort.

1. Confidence comes from competence not arrogance. Confidence is like a perfume. Let your body language, tone and knowledge generate positive energy. This is not to be mistaken with arrogance, cockiness or a sense of superiority.

2. Do you have a gift, skills or talent? As author John Maxwell teaches, "talent is never enough." Your character, punctuality, passion, preparation, integrity, teamwork, initiative and perseverance are keys that open the door to your success.

3. Be visible. If you are out of sight, you are out of the minds of the gatekeepers and decision makers. Show up and participate in meetings, activities, conferences, briefings and opportunities to volunteer. If your personality type is the loner, the bully, the know-it-all, the bear or the missing-in-action type, you are limiting your opportunities for promotion and success.

4. Treat all events as networking. Your job may not be permanent, meaningful or pay well. Give your present job 100% but also strengthen your networking contacts. When you attend social events you have an opportunity to create mutually beneficial relationships. The networking loop examples are; schools, colleges, work, social life, expos, small businesses, corporate businesses, family, neighbors, beauty salon, book clubs, advisors, church, family reunions, mall, fitness center, your on-line community. Information and contacts may not always be available to serve you but others in your circle of family and friends.

5. Develop active communication and listening skills. Networking is not about selling it is about listening to the other person and showing them you are interested in them by active listening. Allow others to open up and talk freely. Give your undivided attention even if it is only for five minutes. Take an interest in what's said and acknowledge this by nodding ng or agreeing. Use positive body language such as facing them with eye contact. Remember names. Use subtle mirroring techniques (body language copying) to develop rapport. Exchange business cards and follow up.

6. Praise, acknowledgement and "thank you" notes are highly underestimated. Be genuine and generous in offering compliments and acknowledgements to others. Genuine and sincere thoughtful gestures can go a long way.

7. Keep up with your industry. Don't get too comfortable and complacent. Learning should be a life long journey. The world is constantly changing. Stay informed by investing in your education.

8. Diversity is here to stay. Pre-judging others and creating negative tension is the workplace is very unproductive and toxic. You may not like your co-workers, but developing respect and a teamwork spirit is essential.

9. Be teachable. Seek out mentors and advisors to add to your skill set and success goal setting strategies. It's not always what you know, but who you know. Be secure enough in your self-esteem to be open to ways of improvement, feedback and growth. What you don't know, can hurt you.

10. Polish up your image. What does your image, attire and grooming say about you? Dress appropriate for your workplace cul ture. It may not be fair, but it's real, you are judged by the outside before people have a chance to know you internally. Your nails, hair, shoes, jewelry, hygiene and overall appearance can open or close doors to promotion and success.

11. Is it necessary? Ask yourself that question when you feel the need to; gossip, complain, steal, lie, procrastinate, talk too much about your personal life, harass, retaliate, visit inappropriate web sites on your computer or lose your temper. Practice self-control. It can take years to build a positive reputation and in one moment of inappropriate behavior --- you could lose it all.

12. Stay organized and reduce clutter. Return all phone calls and e-mails as soon as possible. Begin and end your day organized so you are able to focus on your priorities. You can become an asset to your team rather than a liability as you learn to focus, follow through and become a reliable source.