In under 30 seconds, Maria covers three of the themes that come up over and over again. Why? Because they’re true!

"Focus on quality, not quantity." Mikaela’s networking advice is spot on for learning to relax and be yourself in the room (which is the hard part that takes practice).

Just be brave – because I always say the worst thing that can happen is just a no, and that's fine, at least you've tried.

Networking can open so many doors – because after all: “people buy people.” For anyone, at any stage of your career, get out there, talk to people, and build!

Networking conversations that go nowhere? Change the question.

“You never know who you might meet and where those conversations might go. It might be that you leave with something interesting and insightful and funny. Those conversations might lead into your next job or your next big opportunity. So just go in really open-minded and keep creating more opportunities for yourself.”

You already know your network matters. You've heard "it's who you know" a hundred times. And you still stand at the edge of the room, phone in hand, working up to saying hello. If that's you, you're in the right place.

If "so, what do you do?" turns your stomach, start here. 21 people's best networking advice, and the truth about why knowing the advice it isn't enough.