Jeff could not agree more with #1 - go to as many networking events as you can...as good entrepreneurs will self select. I tend to network 2-3 nights a week in Boston and its quite evident who are the real hustlers and who are the "hobbyists".<p>I have been networking hard for a year or two and have already identified 3-4 people i would no question invest in starting a company with.
From my experience in the corporate world as well as the small business world, the business people who use more jargon and buzz words (out of place) are usually compensating.