I remember being very nervous about networking when I was starting out as a writer, but it helped no end when I realised it is just a fancy term for talking about your book and encouraging others to talk about theirs. For it to work properly, it must be a two way process, otherwise you will come across as egotistical at best. I found the great way of breaking the ice at any writers' conference is to ask whoever you're with what they are writing. It opens up conversation beautifully (and most writers are pleased to ask you the same question as it makes for a much better conversation).
When it comes to fiction, how do your characters react when they are quizzed? Who does the quizzing? Do your characters have rights we take for granted or do they live under a tyranny?