Win friends, influence people

Most schools also run a programme of personal skills, which often include a session on networking and what it means. "It's really to do with being a decent human being," explains Julia Tyler, "It's not about conducting small talk at cocktail parties, but about knowing and remembering people, delivering on what you say you will do, following through on normal interactions."

Adrian Barrett recommends the more gung-ho to approach finding a job like a military campaign. "That means never switching off, always carrying cards with you to social or business events, having your CV on your computer ready and waiting to go. You take any opportunity to at least sound people out as to whether they can help you."

And it does require a measure of bravado – good networkers are no wallflowers, he says. "You can't be afraid to introduce yourself and tell people what you do. While the British are very bad about appearing to brag, Americans will tell you how wonderful they are. You need a clearly defined line about who you are and what you do, but also have the social awareness to know when to stop."

Try writing down a mini-script about yourself that you can get out in around 30 seconds, he suggests. "Good networking is about preparation. And not being afraid to ask questions or ask for help."