5 easy ways to network like a pro

I was fortunate enough that the wonderful people at Steiner Sports invited me to the 2013 Baseball All Star Game. In between shoveling hot dogs, pasta and freshly sliced steak into my mouth, I talked to a lot of people. I also watched the person who invited me; he’s a master networker.

I offer you five networking takeaways that I learned and employed at Citi Field this year. They are applicable anywhere:

1. Get a beer for anyone.

I’ve been doing this for years, and it paid off at the All Star Game. The tables in the lounge I was in (thank you, Modells!) were all high-bar tables, meaning you’d meet new people whenever you sat down. There was no assigned seating.

If I got back up to stuff my face, I’d simply bring back another round of whatever everyone else was drinking. Granted, this is easier at an open bar. But come on, who doesn’t like the guy who shows up with another round?

I got three business cards and one “Oh, your new company sounds interesting. Call me,” out of three beers and a vodka soda.

2. Recommend food.