I like people and I love to talk. That combination should make me a natural when it comes to networking. Yes? Unfortunately, no.

People don't believe me when I admit to being shy. In truth, I am, but I also know the value of making, protecting and nurturing connections. And I know that once I get started, I'll be just fine. But oh how hard it is to take that first step.

Does any of this sound familiar?

I'm not alone when it comes to networking fear. In fact, I'd hazard a guess that it may be the biggest hurdle qualified job seekers face.

Job searching requires networking. Networking requires confidence. But the flipside is that job searching can really damage your confidence.

Here are a few tricks to help you find your networking stride.

1. At least two days before any face-to-face meeting, be it a networking coffee or job interview, take time to prepare. Sometimes you have more time, sometimes you have less. Either way, you must prepare.

• If you are heading into a network meeting, learn as much as you can about the person you are meeting and how they might be able to help you.

• If you are heading into an interview, research both the job for which you are applying and the company. If possible, find out about the person who will be interviewing you.

• Take care with your wardrobe. Get out the clothes you intend to wear and try them on. Inspect them carefully for stains, damage or other signs of wear. If your best business attire requires dry cleaning, the time to get this done is not two days before the interview. Periodic wardrobe inspections will help to ensure that you are always ready to interview.

• Get a haircut. I know, I sound like your dad, but going in to an important meeting looking shaggy is never a good idea. So gentlemen, get a haircut, if necessary, and definitely trim up your beards and moustaches. Ladies, decide in advance how you intend to style your hair. Make sure your hairstyle allows for your entire face to be seen. Yes, your mom was right when she advised, "Get your hair out of your eyes." Well groomed eyebrows and nails are also very important.

2. On the day before your meeting, take time to celebrate you.

• Read your resume.

• Make a list of key accomplishments.

• Write down your strengths and most desirable business traits.

• Talk to people who believe in you.

• Ask a friend to conduct a practice conversation or interview with you. The goal here is to build your confidence and skill through helpful critique, not hurtful criticism.

• Remind yourself of your personal and professional worth.

3. As you get ready to leave ...

• Apply a little makeup. Experts say it has a significant positive effect on (the) judgement of competence.

• Resist the urge to spritz yourself with fragrance. Many people are sensitive to scents and you don't want your interviewer or network connections remembering you as the job seeker who made them sneeze.

• Do eat a bit before you go. You don't want to get lightheaded during the meeting. And I know this is common sense, but eat before you dress.

• Finally, straighten your shoulders, lift your head high, breathe deeply and visualize your success.