? Copyright 2005 Michael Brassil

Networking remains one of the most important methods of
jump-starting your business. It involves a lot more than
walking up to someone and just saying hello. It is one of the
most paramount things you can do to dramatically build your
business.

Networking is not about using people. It is using available
resources to make certain you obtain recognition and
acknowledgment. We all feel better conducting business with
those we have personally met and can relate to. When people
get to know you, they are more likely to want to see you
succeed, and it generally gives them a warm feeling of
satisfaction to know they might have had contributed a small
part toward your success.

During election campaigns, the candidate who often wins, is
the one who with the most posters propped up on people??s
lawns. It isn't because the posters say anything of
importance. It's because they have created valuable name
recognition. When people stand in the voting booth, choosing
between two people they don't know, they tend to vote for
the one whose name they are more familiar with. This is why
it is so important to the development of your new business to
keep your name out in front of your potential market.

Start by joining at least two organizations.

The first should be a general organization for small
businesses. There are several good ones, and each one is a
little different. The key is to carefully choose one that offers
the greatest opportunities to network. In addition to a
general small business association, consider signing up as a
member of an organization that caters to your particular trade
or profession. Again, the best way to find out what is
available is to talk to people in your type of business. By
attending these meetings, you will be establishing good
lasting relationships.

To help you decide which organization would offer the
greatest benefit, ask yourself how likely are you to meet
people who might either buy directly from you or refer
customers to you.

When you attend a meeting:

Don't be shy. Most people who attend these functions are just
as interested in networking as you are. Consider your efforts
to be a learning experience. Don't worry about sales. They will
come later.

Introduce yourself to someone new. Be especially interested
in becoming acquainted with those who are in businesses
that are complementary to yours.

Practice reciting a short paragraph or two that concisely
describes what product you have, or service you provide. It
can be an excellent icebreaker. Write down the value of your
enterprise and list the benefits you offer. Use short and
catchy phrases

Be prepared with at least three topics of conversation. Even if
you have little interest in either of them, sports and politics
are excellent options.

Don't spend the entire time in the company of only those
people you feel comfortable with. The people we find to be
the most interesting are the people that show interest in us.

Ask open-ended questions. This will present an opportunity
for new acquaintances to talk about themselves.

Give your undivided attention to whomever it is that you are
talking to. Focus the conversation on them. People want to
know that what they have to say is important to the listener.

Whenever you can, ask a mutual friend to introduce you
someone new. After a brief conversation about each other's
line of work, ask for a business card. Most people are likely to
reciprocate by asking you for yours.

If you attend an event with someone, split up. This is not the
time or place to stay with friends or relatives.

Don't attempt to glad-hand everyone. Even if a new
acquaintance shows interest, don't attempt to sell him on the
spot. Not only would you waste valuable time by not getting
to meet other attendees, but you will probably be able to set
up an appointment where you can make your unhurried
presentation without interruption.

Use these techniques consistently and your business will
prosper through networking.

About the Author

Michael (Mike) Brassil is author of "The Only Business Start-Up Guide
Your Will Ever Need." Download two chapters -- Starting a New
Business and The Home Working Revolution -- at:
http://www.ImpactGuide.com