The old adage of "it's not what you know, but who you know" still holds true today. While education, skills and experience may help you land a new job, it's often the contacts you have that can open up doors you never dreamed possible.

The term "networking" has been given to this technique of expanding upon your contacts to improve your chances of career success. Much as a computer network links the machines within an office, company or people around the world, so does an effective career network.

While networking is an important skill to learn, it doesn't come as easily to some people as others who have a natural affinity for socializing. That's why the experts offer these important tips for expanding your network and techniques.

1. Stay in touch with as many people as you can that you respect or potentially have reach in your particular career field. These could be former work associates, friends, professors or public officials. Maintain these relationships even if the people cannot help you immediately. You want to be friendly all the time, not just when you are desperate for "a lead."

2. Hone your skills. You may want to take a class in public speaking, body language or even writing. The more techniques you can master, the easier networking will be.

3. Talk to as many people as you can. Use opportunities (within reason) on an airplane, while waiting at the supermarket checkout or at any social events to chat with people. The more people you know (and who know about you) the larger your network will grow. You can even network online through professional organizations or clubs tied into your career field.

4. Practice presenting a verbal resume. You want the people with whom you network to learn about you in a clear and succinct manner. Rehearse what you want to say about yourself and fine-tune what works and what doesn't.

5. Be a good listener. Networking is a subtle game of give and take. Listen earnestly to what others say to you and take an interest in the conversations you have.

6. Become comfortable with giving out business cards or resumes. Always have some sort of contact information or a synopsis of what makes you you on hand to give out. You don't want to be scribbling on the backs of napkins or envelopes.

7. Make your own news to get noticed. Generate your own publicity. If your work is in caregiving, for example, be the person who gets on the news for organizing a special event geared around a nursing home in your community.

8. Follow any and all leads, no matter how trivial they may seem at the time. You never know when a piece of information could turn into your big break.