Today is Tim Sackett Day, aka the day we recognize someone we heart in Human Resources who won't end up on some fancy influencer list.

This year, our Tim Sackett Day honoree is Paul Hebert. Paul is the incentive go-to-guy and a wonder of a human being. I first met Paul at an HR conference and although we don't cross paths often, he is my guy for anything incentive and reward related.

I have his incentive primer starred in my Google Reader. Because of a conversation I had with Paul after my daughter received her first report card, I know paying for grades (e.g., $1.00 for an A) isn't a great idea. Instead, I recognize the quality she work she does and the attention she pays to her school assignments..

If you don't know Paul Hebert, you are missing out. It's never too late to add another link to you reader, another connection to your LinkedIn profile or another face to your Twitter stream. You can find Paul here (hover to highlight and click to follow links):

We are using the hashtag #timsackettday on Twitter for Paul's recognition as a heroic HR person and human being. Keep an eye out for the tweets and RT a few of them!

Here's to Paul!

From challenges to "get social" to chants of "it's not what you know, it's who you know," the message to connect is loud and clear. For some, networking is just another day in the neighborhood. For others, the call to network is met with a hearty, "No, thank you!"

Whether you are seeking a job, building a tribe (click to follow link), or entering a new community, it is important that you do not ignore the call to network. Taking the first step may have you mentally (or physically) bolting for the door, but it doesn't have to be that way.

Buyer beware when it comes to networking advice. Here are 3 things "they" didn't tell you about networking:

One connection is enough. One meaningful connection beats scanning the most business cards (as if this were a game). Seek out someone who shares the same interests as you, has accomplished something you'd like to learn more about or someone you have something you'd like to offer o them or assist them with.

You don't have to go if you don't want to. Long week, conflicting priorities, down time in short supply . . . whatever the reason, it's OK to decline an invitation. But don't let the opportunity pass you by. Is there another time to connect you can offer to the person or group? See #1 above.

Others are looking to connect with you. Chances are, someone has spotted you from across the room. You are on their short list of people to talk with at the event and they are headed your way. take that first step, meet them half-way and you're on. You can do this.

There is more then one way to network. Not everyone can walk in to a large social situation without some angst. You can create ways to network that are comfortable to you? Is it a morning meeting, a small group dinner, a volunteer gig? You decide.

Everyone has a networking sweet spot. What's yours?

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Lisa Rosendahl