"It doesn't get easier, you get stronger".

I assume you are from a tech background? Break networking down to baby steps. I was always told to go "three deep" on a question.

Ex.

Me: Hey, how are you? What projects are you working on now? Person: Hey, I'm alright. I'm working on this widget Me: Cool. Why did you chose to work on this widget? Person: Because I want to learn more about squelch Me: I don't know much about squelch; what have you learned? ...

This helps avoid shallow talk, and establishes that you are a functional person who is interested in them. (Most). People love to talk about themselves.

Now that you've established yourself, you can start talking about what you want, whether it be you're looking for clients, looking for a second opinion on xyz, etc.