Network associates can give you the information you need, such as trade show dates. A contact is a person your network associate knows at a specific company. A connection is a step up from a contact. Your network associate tells you to call the contact and make it a point to use his name. In the referral, the network associate makes the initial contact for you.
Referrals are a great way to meet people.
For those who think networking is short term, think again. The people you meet today will not only help you with the job you seek currently but three jobs from now as well. Although you may want everyone to be in your primary network it most likely won't happen. The idea is to build a network that will be there for you 10 years from now. Helpful tips for networking success At business functions, wear a name badge that can be read 15 feet away.