You need to be good at introducing yourself. This means telling just enough about yourself to inspire questions without talking too long, being too boring, or being too conceited or modest. It needs to be tailored to setting, but you should still have a basic elevator pitch ready as well. After all, you never know when you're going to meet someone on the El or in the bookstore or in the coffee line that has the next opportunity or lead for you. After all, the last impression you make is as important as the first impression.
