Don’t delegate – you can’t network if your co-worker or employee is present but you’re not. Can’t be present? If it’s an event – you can’t call it in – but you can call with sincere apologies and make plans for next time. If it’s a committee meeting make arrangements so you can call in. Be reliable. Be present.
Greet everyone enthusiastically and sincerely – it’s the essence of networking – being genuine, be open. Smart companies gauge prospective employees by how they treat EVERYONE so too do savvy networkers. Engage sincerely, learn something, don’t sell.
Follow-up – this is most important. New connections or not, you owe it to yourself to make a point to share something after the meeting. A thank you, an article of common interest, an appointment to learn more about how you can work together, an endorsement on LinkedIn. These go a long way to strengthen your ties and keep relationships fresh.