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The modern art of networking for business

Networking is about planning and making the right choices.

Networking can be an effective way of growing your own business, but too often people rely on chance rather then public relations strategies to help them connect with the right people.

But according to Business Know-How there are simple things entrepreneurs can do to make sure that they succeed in places others may fail.

Number one on their list of things to do is to make sure that you remember real networking - the type that translates to important sales and is all about being genuine.

In everyday speak this means that trust is the basis of any social interaction and is just as important to business deals as real life relationships.

Setting social goals is another way of making sure that your networking opportunities are not wasted and it is important that you identify whether a person or meeting could be classified as a learning, marketing or sales opportunity.

Also making the list is the need to visit as many groups as possible in person - this means dropping email for a moment and taking the time to talk to another individual face-to-face.

If these types of social interactions make you feel uncomfortable then simply remember to open the conversation with a firm handshake, listen as much as possible and close the meeting by passing on your green business card to interested parties.

Giving back to the community by having a number of volunteer positions on offer is another great way to stay engaged with what is happening in the world, as well as opening your business to new client bases.

Equally important is managing the perception others have of you and your company by always presenting an upbeat and professional image. It may not make a difference in the short-term but if people begin to identify you as a powerful resource they are sure to pass on your details to their own client base.