It’s funny, on the same day that I have lunch with Rob May from BusinessPundit.com, he writes a blog entry titled, “How to Network: For Introverts.” I consider myself an introvert, so many of Rob’s tips apply directly to me. He suggests that networking is an investment and consists of building relationships over time. In other words, don’t expect immediate results. I agree completely.

At the beginning the year, I made a personal commitment to improve at business networking. This year I started LouisvilleGeekDinner.com, joined several professional organizations, started re-connecting with old friends, made an effort to meet new friends, and started having network lunches on a period basis.

The little time that I have invested has already paid enormous dividends. The primarily benefit is that I am starting to feel more comfortable in social situations. If this is an area of life in which you would like to improve, my only advice is to just get started.

Here’s an interesting article from RirianProject on the topic of being mentally fit for work. In this, he suggests eating well, thinking positive, resist being a slave to technology, moderate physical exercise, sleeping well, and putting your mind to work right away. I think we’re all looking for ways to increase productivity; these are excellent tips.

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