Powerful Networking: Focus on Building Connections, Not Closing Sales

Networking is an effective way of prospecting customers and seeking out people who can help your business grow. It should be an integral part of every small and home-based owners' marketing plans.

However, networking goes beyond the simple act of exchanging small talks and business cards. It is a way for entrepreneurs to connect with each other, and subsequently, leverage that connection for the benefit of each other's businesses ("each other" being the key, not just yourself). You can attend all the networking activities you want, from your chamber's meeting to a get-together of folks in your industry, but it needs to be mutually beneficial for it to work.

To learn how to approach networking from a prospective that ultimately leads to increased business, read Julie Chance's article on networking. For more information on how to network effectively for your business, visit PowerHomeBiz.com's Word-of-Mouth Marketing and Networking channel.