In today’s world people’s b.s. meters are highly calibrated and most people don’t want to be pitched or sold to. That is why the way most professional networkers go about it doesn’t work. In a world that is driven by relationships, there are no shortcuts. There are only people who are willing to put in the work and those who want to short-cut the process.

Have you ever been meeting with a friend, business colleague or prospective client and suddenly found yourself not knowing what to say next? You know that lull in your conversation which comes after you've exchanged the customary "How's the family? What have you been up to?" pleasantries. That silence can be the kiss of death when you are trying to create, develop and build a relationship with someone.

When she finished she just sat there, blinking. She was emotionally exhausted.