Networking in most social situations is difficult enough, but when you throw thousands of (often) socially awkward and introverted geeks together, the task becomes even more overwhelming. And these aren’t just any geeks, these are Drupal geeks, which means you’ve got a ton of smart, dedicated and interesting people to meet -- it’s just that some might need a little nudge. If you haven’t already, I highly recommend “Work the Pond!” by Darcy Rezac -- it, along with my own experiences, is what powers the following advice:

Introduce Yourself
If you’re having trouble meeting new people, locate a group that appears to be welcoming and approach them -- if they’re nice (see #2 below) they’ll invite you in and expand their circle. There may also be others wandering alone, so don’t be afraid to approach them and introduce yourself. By doing so, you’ve just started your own group and started expanding your network. When you meet someone, give them your name, your business card and tell them a little about yourself. Try to have a story/bio that is somewhat interesting and informative. Greet people with a smile, eye contact and a firm handshake. A shake with the right and a card pass-off with your left makes for a smooth transition. When you receive a card, try to thoughtfully comment on it and ask questions to help break the ice. Do this with at least 7 people each day of the conference.

Be Nice
It’s hard enough to meet new people and have a meaningful conversation, so please leave your ego at home and treat everyone you meet equally and with respect. Those you think may be the least likely to offer you something interesting will be the ones that help expand your network and inspire you to do great things. Invite those you see wandering alone into your established circle and introduce them to others you know. When you do speak with someone, give them your undivided attention and maintain eye contact at all times.

Offer Your Services
If you’re finding it hard to take a conversation to the next level, considering offering others something. Perhaps your company specializes in Drupal SEO and you meet someone who is a great programmer, but their sites are not getting the kind of traffic they’d like. If you happen to be a Drupal development shop and you meet another who does the same thing, it may be more difficult to offer anything worthwhile -- try to meet those who might naturally be in need of your services. If you go out of your way to offer your help/services to another, they will remember your gesture and your investment will likely have a large return.

Follow Up
Once you’ve collected your business cards, make it a point to follow up with them the next day or when you get home and again share with them ideas on how you might be able to help them. At the very least, thank them for the opportunity to meet and leave the conversation open to continue at a later time should your paths ever cross in the future.

It’s largely common sense. Treat everyone with repect and it makes it easier for all of us to network and meet new and interesting people. Alas, there will always be those who aren’t ready for this, and you’ll just have to get over the rejection -- it’s bound to happen.

If you see me or my partner out on the floor or in a session, please don’t hesitate to say hello and introduce yourself!