Many people suggest "networking" as a tool or technique to build your career, get better jobs, get promotions, et cetera.

But what is "networking"? And more importantly, how do you know if you have "networked" or "built your network" "successfully"? (I quoted all the terms which I think may have subjective and widely varying definitions).

Many folks think that networking is schmoozing at networking events. Others think it is adding "friends" to Facebook or LinkedIn. But how do measure the success of such networks or activities? But we all know people (perhaps ourselves) who have done those things and still have trouble getting jobs, promotions, and recognition.