people only want to get BY you to get a drink!) When introducing yourself to a recruiter, step up to the person, shake their hand firmly, look them in the eye, and state your name clearly. Tell them a little about yourself and your goals, and then ask intelligent questions about the company which show that you have done your research, (e.g., how about finding out more about that new product division you heard they were planning?). Also ask them what they are looking for in their hires, what type of projects you would do, etc.

Be prepared for small talk, and know that as inane as the topic may seem, you are still being judged, so be careful not to be negative or critical in your comments. Ensure that you don't monopolize a group conversation: employers look unfavorably on the monopolizers as much as those who stand quietly by and do not participate. When you have learned as much as you think you need to know, tactfully excuse yourself, and move on.

One of university's best kept secrets is the student membership rate offered by many professional associations. These are often quite low, and membership enables students to mingle with many potential employers as well as those who might provide valuable job search advice and/or contacts. Besides attending meetings and conferences offered by the association, volunteer for projects or committee work to demonstrate your initiative, skills and knowledge - and impress!

Speaking of volunteering: don't overlook this opportunity to not only meet people and build your network, but also to gain additional experience and skills. Consider offering your services to any of the large number of organizations on campus and in the community. (And remember: employers in all fields look very favorably on candidates who have a strong sense of community involvement).

Make a list of all the people you know and approach them to find out whom they might know in your area of interest. Don't overlook anyone: you never REALLY know who they might know, and who that person might know, and so on… When you are referred to someone you don't know, ask if you can use your contact's name, then call the person to whom you have been referred to set up a networking interview. You can also set up such a meeting with people to whom you have not been referred, but whom you have identified as a key prospect. Approach people with the attitude that their experience is valuable to you and you would like to learn more about what they do. Most people will be very willing to help. For more information on how to conduct effective networking interviews, visit the Networks & Contacts section of University of Waterloo 's Career Development Manual at http://www.cdm.uwaterloo.ca .

Finally, there is the everyday networking you should do wherever you happen to be. Take advantage of chance meetings, be they on the bus or at the fitness club. Be open. Consider everyone as a potential source.

Remember, networking is not whom you know, but who knows you and what you can do. If someone doesn't know you, it's difficult for them to recommend you for an opportunity. Make sure your network is working for you!

The above is an excerpt from The Last Job Search Guide You'll Ever Need: How to Find and Get the Job or Internship of Your Dreams, which is available for sale for $19.85 in our bookstore or $27.00 at Amazon.com but for free to those who subscriber to our free career newsletter. This hot new book contains job search secrets of the most experienced, most knowledgeable and most respected career experts. Learn career planning, job hunting tools and tactics, interviewing, cover letter and resume writing (lots of samples!), networking, and how to find an internship. Written by 149 career experts. To receive a free copy, subscribe to our free career newsletter.