These are the networking tools of the average:

1) Polished resume

2) Elevator pitch

3) Case studies

4) Industry Insights

5) Answers and opinions.

What's the message? Me, me, me...

Result: "uhm... yeah, I'll pass along your resume (I guess)"

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These are the networking tools of the exceptional:

1) Study profiles of the people they're about to meet.

2) Questions to learn more about their professional trajectory.

3) Questions about their craft, industry and role.

4) Questions about their goals and pain points.

5) Helpful resources to support them.

What's the message? You, you, you...

Result: "I want to introduce you to some amazing folks."