Sometimes by chance, or unrehearsed encounter, does an event enable two contacts to become great mutual connections. In the professional world, it isn't the easiest to break down someone's wall. Be genuine, even if the first meeting was awkward. I remember the times in undergrad when meeting a new friend, or associate first hand was an awkward introduction. To this day, it's still awkward for me sometimes. However, in that underlying awkwardness, you open up a conscious avenue to being honest and respectable. The second party you are networking with should pick up on this. You'll survive! Networking can only open doors, as long as you put in the effort and show what you can offer. Listen to some of our networking techniques as we build on the truth to networking with tips we put in practice.