Some individuals take to networking with ease, while others dread speaking to strangers.  For the majority it’s a Challenge. Whether you’re on the board of directors, or searching for your first position in HR, there’s a raft of ways to network.

Social networks with a business theme, such as LinkedIn, can keep you in touch and give you the opportunity to join ongoing discussions about industry issues. A blog can be a great way to show off your knowledge and commenting on articles in the press or the blogosphere helps get your opinions known. However, HR is a people business and there's little substitute for face-to-face engagement.

At People Unlimited, we're so conscious of the power of face to face networks that we have been running forum3, the UK’s largest not-for-profit career fair. This year’s event is on September 24-25 and gives HR professionals from third sector organisations a chance to link up, debate the issues that concern them and attend seminars from industry leaders.

forum3 is designed to be a place for people to make connections that could change their career. However, two full days of opportunities and attending an event with 15,000 other people can be daunting. Even the most confident people can feel frightened in formal networking situations, and it’s easy to drift aimlessly without speaking to anyone because you don’t feel comfortable.

Face to face networking is a vital skill and it’s not as hard as people think once you have some tricks up your sleeve. Here are some top tips to get the best out of any busy networking event.

Wear something comfortable but that shows you in the best light. People make judgments quickly and your first impression can be helped by looking professional and confident. People will not take you seriously if you're too casual or scruffy, but it’s no use feeling self-conscious or uncomfortable in clothes that are too formal, tight or stiff.

Similarly, real networking is about being genuine and authentic - there’s no point putting on a façade or pretending you’re someone you’re not. Be confident in yourself and honest about your experience and motivations. Every person you meet is a chance to start a new relationship, and if it progresses they will soon find out who you really are.

If it’s a busy and crowded event, you need to make an impression quickly. When asked about your job or skills, talk about what you’ve achieved, not just what your tasks were. Not only will it make you stand out in people’s minds, but also gives the person you meet an interesting topic to start a conversation.

If you’re taking a CV, make sure it is up-to-date and blows your own trumpet. If you have a business card, don’t forget to hand it out.

Everyone at the event has something to teach you; they wouldn’t be there if they didn’t share your interest. Exchange email addresses with everyone, from people on stalls to people in the drinks or coffee queue. If you’re attending the event on your own, it’s always easier to approach someone else who is also on their own. They may have been nervous about talking to someone too and be relieved you have broken the ice.

However, don’t be tempted to get stuck talking to one person; your big opportunity could be the next person you speak to. Keep an eye on the time and don’t be afraid to break off the conversation and move on. Be friendly, you can always follow up with them later.