Around 80% of jobs today are found through networking, making networking your most effective way to land your next job. Some people are natural networkers, for them engaging in conversation with complete strangers or people they know is easy and enjoyable. For others and especially for introverts, networking is scary and uninviting.
Whether you are an introvert or just overwhelmed by the concept of networking and talking with strangers, my suggestion is start small.
Small, can mean first talking with people you know, people that you are more comfortable talking with naturally. Practice what you want to say, about yourself, about what you are looking for and perhaps about how they could help you in your job search.
Start with one on one meetings rather than group meetings. For most people it is easier to engage with one person rather than a group.
Look up the person you are meeting with on LinkedIn, think of what you may have in common, and things you could small talk about to get the conversation going. People usually like to talk about themselves. Asking them about what they do, what they like about it etc., should help the conversation flow. Of course prepare questions you can ask to help you in your job search.
At the end of the meeting make sure to ask if they can recommend other people you could talk with. Give it a go and try it out, it is not as scary as it sounds!

Watch Sarela Bliman-Cohen, a master networker, provide a step-by-step guide to how to Network Your Way to a New Job.

Miki Feldman Simon, Founder & CEO IamBackatWork