What makes for a good networker

You know for my job it is important that I get out there and network. It's a numbers game. The more people I meet the more referrals of clients I will get.
I don't particularly like networking. Don't get me wrong...I love meeting people and am naturally curious about who they are and what they do. I love asking questions and people generally love to tell me all about themselves.

Here is the problem for me. I have been to many networking events where I feel that people are in it just to tell you about who they are and what they do. They have an agenda and when exposed to the not so subtle ones you can feel as though you have been assaulted or at least dismissed if you can not serve that agenda.

These are the folks who are solely concerned for what you can do for them. They will go on and on about what they do. They may casually ask you what it is you do and once you tell them they go back to talking about what it is they do.

Why would I refer someone like this to someone I knew and liked. How could I feel that they would have any true consideration for that person and that it would not be about fulfilling their own agenda.

The people I know who are truly successful at networking are the ones that make sure they know about you. They want to know who you are and want you to know who they are...it's mutual...not one sided.

I suspect those who bring their agenda to these events are often wondering why they don't get more referrals....I think I know.