If you are one of the millions of Americans who are unemployed, you have no doubt encountered your fair share of disappointing interviews and disheartening networking events, all of which has likely taken a toll on your self-esteem and positive outlook. Putting yourself out there, going on interviews, and making connections with people in your field of work is crucial, yet after months of unemployment you might feel like you have lost your confidence or your "edge."

Networking is equally important for those who are still fortunate enough to have their jobs. The economy has negatively affected almost every industry, meaning that many businesses have lost clients, accounts, and customers. Landing new clients is the one surefire way to stay afloat in this recession—yet without networking skills, you will be hard pressed to get someone to sign on the dotted line.

If you have never networked before, or if you are just out of practice, it’s easy enough to brush up on your technique and become a pro at this business-building technique. Consider the following steps:

• “Shop around” before you make a decision. Before you join a networking group, you want to make sure that it is the right fit. In other words, you want to know more about the group, including what fields they cater to, and more about the members, including what their business and professional goals are. Most networking groups allow you to attend two or three meetings before you decide if you want to join, so take your time and make sure you join a group which will benefit you and support you.

• Make use of Internet resources. From LinkedIn to Facebook, businesses everywhere are creating profiles and reaching out to potential clients and hires through the Web. If you are looking for a job, you can surf these sites in order to learn more about businesses in your field. And it doesn’t end at online networking.

• Networking has the word work in it for a reason. People often use networking events as an excuse to enjoy a few hors d'oeuvres and a free cocktail. However, networking events are pointless endeavors if you don’t actually “work” the room. Before you leave the house, make it a goal to meet and talk with a certain number of people (say three to five for your first event). Don’t leave the event until you have reached your goal. After a few days have passed, follow up with the contacts you have made to help the relationship continue to grow and develop.

• Give before you receive. Meeting people at these events isn’t enough to build your business or land a new job. You have to be of use to the people you meet. Contrary to popular thinking, if you walk around an event handing out your business cards and selling, selling, selling, people won’t be interested. In fact, they might even be downright turned off. Instead, approach networking with the mindset of “What can I do for you?” Be interested in the people you are talking to, and offer advice or assistance whenever possible. Although this attitude won’t immediately pay off, in the long run you will create lasting, appreciative relationships as well as a reputation for being a go-getter and a worthwhile contact. Think of it as good karma in the business world—each good turn you make you will come back to you in the future.

• Pick up the B-I-L-L to network effectively. If you want to be a success at networking, pick up the b-i-l-l: business, interests, loved ones, and life purpose. These are some of the best and most appropriate topics to begin a conversation. After approaching someone and finding out his name, begin by asking questions about his business. Follow up by asking what he likes do in his free time, his family, and finally his passions. Notice when he seems most interested and involved in the conversation (perhaps he perks up when he talks about a love for tennis or his three children), and ask followup questions to keep that energy flowing.

Overcoming your initial shyness and networking regularly will go a long way in making your career successful. By attending networking events often, making use of online resources, and being open and interested in the people you speak with, you can hone and improve this crucial corporate skill. Remember, the success of your business relies upon the success of relationships, so get out there and network your way to the top.