When it comes to networking, working a room can be daunting, especially for those uncomfortable with the social pressures of schmoozing. But there’s no underestimating the value of connections gleaned from a good contact. New websites like LinkedIn.com are principled on the potential upside of your contacts (and, by extension, their contacts). Further your career by prepping for networking events, advises Rebecca Matchett, cofounder and CEO of Rebecca and Drew clothing, who has teamed up with Dress for Success, a nonprofit that provides professional attire to underprivileged women. Here’s what she tells her "clients" about networking.

说到建立人际关系方面，把一屋子里的人都“拿下”也许是个令人畏惧的任务，特别对于那些不习惯调侃的人来说。不过别低估了好的人际关系的价值。像LinkedIn.com这样的新兴网站就是基于你的潜在关系（拓展开来，他们的关系）的原则建立的。Rebecca Matchett， Rebecca and Drew服装厂的创办人、首席执行官，建议人们为社交活动做好准备，以此来推进事业的发展。这家服装厂和为弱势女性提供职业衣着的非赢利组织Dress for Success有合作。下面就是Rebecca Matchett给“顾客”们有关建立职场关系的一些建议：

1. Ask Questions

提问

The best way to engage a stranger is by asking a lot of questions about what he or she does. Go ahead, be nosy! Find out what they do, whether they like it, what they are particularly proud of. It’s a great way to ingratiate yourself while also gleaning relevant information about the industry. Be as sincere as possible, though. Your goal is to create a lasting impression, but not as an opportunist.

要结识陌生人的最好方法就是问对方大量关于其职业的问题。走上前，提出问题！了解别人做什么，喜不喜欢他们自己的职业，对什么事物尤为自豪。这是即能迎合对方又能收集相关行业信息的一个很好方式。不过你要尽量真诚。你要给对方留下一个深刻印象，但不要让其认为你是机会主义者。

2. Don't Rush

不要急躁

It’s always best to approach someone by speaking about something other than work. Break the ice. Remark on details from the event — "These canapés are delicious!" That’s a more organic segue into your agenda — making an impression on someone who could help your career.

谈谈工作之外的话题永远是一个接近别人的最佳方式。打破沉默。评论一下这次活动的细节——“这些鱼子酱面包味真美味!" 这是进入你的“议程”的一种更自然的过渡，给那些能给予你帮助的人留下印象。