Here's the paradox: networking is by far the best way to learn about other companies and new job opportunities, but few job seekers want to do it. The main reasons include:

• Shyness
• Introversion
• Being uncomfortable talking to strangers

Develop a strategy
If you can relate to any of these reasons, then I have a tip for you: Play to your strengths. Chances are you're a good listener. Capitalize on that. Develop a strategy that gets the other person talking while you listen. You can do that by creating and memorizing five good questions.

These questions can't be answered with a Yes or No. They are questions that everyone has an answer to, and allow the other person to talk easily about themselves. Here are some examples:

• What kind of work do you do?
• How did you get into that field?
• What do you like most about it?
• What do you find most challenging?
• What would make your job easier?
• What are the big challenges facing your company in the next two years?

Use your listening skills
By having these questions memorized you will not feel like you will run out of things to talk about, because your conversation partner will do most of the talking, and you can use your listening skills. Periodically reflect back to them what you hear, and ask follow up questions. If you do, two things will happen.

First, the more they talk, the more they think you are terrific. Second, they will invariably ask how they can help you. That's the graceful opening that allows you to ask about companies or job openings.

The end of this story: Besides listening, what are your other strengths? If you're not sure, try a career assessment. There are some powerful career management tools that can identify your top motivations and talents.

Article by Henry Neils, President and Founder of Assessment.com, the leading online career assessment company focused on helping employees and employers work together for their mutual benefit. Millions of people have gained personal insight into their careers by using the tools, such as MAPP™ (Motivational Appraisal of Personal Potential), provided at Assessment.com."