Don't give up just yet. To get where you're headed, real and lasting relationships will always matter. And there are so many fabulous people out there to meet!

The key is to surround yourself with outstanding people you care about and who care about you: those who cheer you, challenge you, and at times are willing to tell you you're nuts. You understand each other's business and want to help each other grow, sharing top-of-mind connections, in a mutual spirit of trust and respect.

Where networking grows tired is when it becomes simply a business card exchange. Where networking gets ugly is when the vultures attack.

Have you ever been swarmed by a vulture networker?

Vultures show up only when they need something from you, as they swoop in for the kill. Maybe it's expertise they want from you, your leads or information they know you'll gladly share. Vultures are only interested in getting exactly what they want, and then they're off to conquer their next prey.

Don't feed the vultures. Choose to be a star networker instead.

Look for meaningful ways to create real and lasting relationships. Get beyond the trivial talk and find out how you can best help each other get where you're headed. Give generously and ask nothing in return.

Be selective; you don't have time for real relationships with everyone you meet.

If you're not interested to get or stay connected, don't pretend you are. If your business focus requires you to limit your time for meeting with and helping others, let them know rather than making them guess why you're not responding as usual.

And when others let you know they need to step back for a focused time, support them by allowing the space they need.

One of my recent challenges has been turning down meetings I'd usually love to be at, as I am choosing to limit my commitments so I can focus on writing my book. Some people get that and respect it, others never will.

Networking is alive and well, an important and fun part of growing your business. Just beware the vultures. Be a star and hang out with them instead.

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