Networking connects you with useful or like-minded people and can provide a rich source of information about the industry or field you are attracted to.

And with 32 percent of Australian jobs being spread by word of mouth, it opens the door to finding unadvertised job opportunities.

So, what's the deal?

Oh my god, I don't know how to network, I don't know anybody. I'm so screwed.

Don't panic, you have a network already.

It's your family, your friends, potential workmates from the past or present, a whole bunch of people who know other people who know other people.

Networking is as easy as leveraging these people to connect with new contacts and new delicious opportunities.

Step one: goals. You need to know what you want.

You need specific and clear goals, what's your dream job?

What needs to happen for that dream to be a reality? Do you want a specific mentor? Well, who do you need to know?

What are you passionate about? What skills do you have?

How do these overlap? Who will find this useful?

Remember, if you know what you want, you'll be significantly more effective when you engage with your network.

Because, you'll know exactly what you need and people will know exactly what they can provide.

Step 2: be confident.

The most important step when networking is that you have to put yourself out there.

For many, the hardest thing to do is to overcome the hurdle of going out of your comfort zone, finding new people and engaging in the dreaded small talk.

Alas, one-to-one relationship building is the most effective way to build relationships and thus, build a strong network.

So, it's all about that social engagement, baby.

Before you jump into events or work seminars or meetups or even some online connection, here are some tips to up your social game.

Be yourself. That's what's really cool, get excited about the things you like.

People like people who have interests and care about things.

Be generous with your time. If you can see a way to be helpful, act on it.

Don't approach people with an attitude of expecting something, go in with the desire to make a friend.

Be positive. People respond positively for positivity.

Small talk. Small talk can really suck, but it's much easier if you sincerely remain curious about the person you are talking to.

Everyone has at least one cool thing, try to find it by asking questions and actively listening.

Step 3: resources. Well, where are we going? Over here? Hmm, should probably work that out.

If you do your research and have a defined goal, finding resources will be easier.

You want to go to the moon, look up other astronauts.

Maybe reach out to a couple, check the appropriate websites and find moon meetups.

The Internet also makes connection very easy.

Websites like LinkedIn, are all about professional networking.

Social media will assist with connecting via groups and messaging.

And helpful meetup websites will help you find specific like-minded people.

So, get to a browser and have a look, you will find something.

Summary: set a goal. Put yourself out there.

Be yourself, be positive, don't engage new people with expectations and develop those small talk skills.

And take advantage of online resources.