Boost Career Through Networking.(MANAGING FOR SUCCESS)(REAL SOLUTIONS: JOB SEARCH)

Byline: Morey Stettner

You may think that once you land a job that pays more than $100,000 a year, your days of networking are over. Think again.

"Networking is really a lifelong attitude that breeds success," said David Opton, founder and chief executive of ExecuNet, a career consulting firm in Norwalk, Conn. "It's an ongoing process that enables you to make meaningful connections with people."

Yet some managers view networking as a dreaded chore that's part of a job hunt. Because forced outreach can seem phony, it carries negative connotations for many.

"The best networkers aren't concerned about what they're going to get from an encounter," said Opton. "They're more intent on listening with genuine interest."

If a speaker asks for your advice or discloses revealing information, your ears should perk up. Listen patiently, confirm your understanding and try to provide insight or propose solutions. By seeking to understand and help people rather than extract favors from them, you gain power and wisdom.

Poor networkers kill chances of cultivating relationships by interrupting or hogging the conversation. They drive away potential allies by talking too much. "Listen to learn, not as a means to an end," said Opton.