Presidential candidate Donald Trump said this about today's business environment: You know the boards of companies are supposed to [regulate CEO compensation] but I know companies very well and the CEO puts in all his friends...and they get whatever they want, you know, because their friends love sitting on the board."

Regardless of your political opinion of Trump, he confirmed the importance of networking in today's business environment. Professionals first look to the people they know and trust to take on important tasks for them. You've probably done that in your own life. Wouldn't you rather trust your children to a babysitter you know rather than a total stranger?

That's why networking is so important. If you can get yourself onto peoples' short lists, you're not likely to be without work. Instead, your career will continue to grow (see Top Networking Tips for Advisors).

The rules haven't changed much over the years but technology has. Here's how you network like a pro these days.

You've already made an impression on your business colleagues. It doesn't make much sense to take them to a networking event and stand together the whole time. Instead, head to the event alone and force yourself to mingle.

Nobody would advise looking goofy head to toe, but an interesting pair of shoes, a scarf, or tastefully eye-catching shirt is definitely a conversation starter. Just remember, there's a fine line between tasteful and inappropriate.

If they look older, the must be wiser and richer, right? Maybe, but judging people by age is a bad idea. There are plenty of up-and-coming 20- and 30-somethings whom you want to know.

The Millennial generation values giving back. If you try to build a relationship on what somebody can give you, you're doomed from the start. Instead, show your value to them.

Influencers meet a lot of people, and they forget about most of them. Because memories are mostly visual, creating a unique memory may keep you from becoming one of the forgotten. (See #2.) Ask a unique, thought-provoking question, for example.

Everybody knows about LinkedIn (see How To Use LinkedIn To Get A Job), but how about sites such as HARO (Help A Reporter Out) – a place where reful reporters go to find experts for their current stories. Or how about job-search sites. Maybe you're not looking for a job but know somebody who would fit that person's needs? Remember, you're forming relationships by first giving to them.

Busy people have gatekeepers screening their calls and emails while organizing their schedule. You aren't likely to get any time with that person if you don't first befriend the gatekeeper.

Busy people don't have time to read a long email. If you're emailing an executive, stick with three to five sentences. Include a link or two if there are supporting facts you want that person to read.

Think of networking as making a professional friend. A whole lot of superficial friendships isn't better than having one or two quality relationships that add value to each other. Don't try to stuff your contact list. If you go to an event and find one or two contacts, you've done well.

Some people strike the perfect balance between talking and listening, fun vs. obnoxious, interesting vs. boastful. Then there is almost everybody else. Practice networking every day by striking up conversations with people around the office, at a restaurant or at your child's soccer game. Conversation is definitely an art, and art takes practice.

Computers didn't kill networking. It's still vital that you meet people in and out of your industry as you build your career and your business. You aren't going to succeed alone. It will take a network of people to help you get there.