4. Expand Your Online and Offline Networks Frequently: Join professional and industry-related associations, alumni groups, Chamber of Commerce committees, and other social networks. Identify key industry leaders you want to meet, schedule informational meetings/interviews, and start building your own team of alliances.

Don’t neglect popular, social media networks like LinkedIn.com, E-cademy.com, Zoominfo.com, Ziggs.com, Namz.com, and Twitter.com to connect with former associates and friends and to search for industry experts and top people in your target companies.