This past week in NYC it has been a whirlwind of fashion shows, parties and conferences- and I came away with one very important lesson: be friends first.

Business is a tricky area to navigate. You meet someone and you know they could help you, or you could help them- but stating that outright isn’t always the best policy. As a fashion blogger, and attending a couple of really great fashion blogging conferences this week-Chictopia 10 and Independent Fashion Bloggers: Evolving Influence- there has been a great deal of talk about authenticity. My feeling is, why should this not carry over into your networking?

When you meet someone, focus on building the relationship first. Ask the personal questions, get their background and keep track of their on-goings. Really think of these people as friends. Remember their names and what they are passionate about. Share links with them through an established email exchange if you are able to do so. Build something before bringing in the business.

That way, later, when the time is right, the stars align and you need to call on them for something they will want to help you out because you have a mutually invested relationship going. It is not what you know, but who you know does carry truth- I would add, it is how you know them.