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Business networking

Whatever industry your company is based in, business networking is sure to play an important role. From making essential contacts when your business is in its infancy to sourcing potential partners for a new venture, the power of business networking should never be underestimated. 

Many businesses think that business networking is something that only established businesses need to be involved in but this couldn't be further from the truth. Business networking is essential for every business and is especially vital for newly established businesses and SMEs who are looking to make a name for themselves in the local business community.

In the past business networking has only consisted of formal stuffy networking events at a posh hotel but modern business networking is a world away from this. From a friendly chat over breakfast to an informal meeting over brunch, modern business networking is all about making an important connection with other business professionals, regardless of the setting. 

Business networking can be daunting to begin with, especially if you're joining an established networking group which already has a large list of members, but the important thing to remember is that everyone was new once. When networking it's important to remember that first impressions really do count so make sure you make a good one! Remember to take a large number of business cards with you, a pen and some spare paper to jot down the names and numbers of any contacts you make. 

When attending a pre-planned networking event it's a good idea to review the guestlist before the day. When reviewing the names you need to consider who you'd like to meet - what your company could do for them and vice versa - remember, networking is all about give and take! When meeting new contacts at networking meetings ensure you ask open ended questions - you don't want to sound selfish by just talking about your business the whole time!

If you do get new contact names and numbers, ensure you follow up as soon as possible - if you've said you're going to call them, call them! Even if you don't think they could help your business at the moment, they may be able to in the future so never neglect a potential new client.

Business networking is a vast topic - if you want to become the best of the best it's worth doing some research before you enter in the world of business networking to give yourself the best chance of success!