Networking isn't what you do at a meeting; it's what happens because you were at the meeting. Here are the steps:

1: FOLLOW THROUGH IN WRITING WITH EVERYONE YOU SHOOK HANDS WITH: A quick note or email message will help the people you met remember your name - it's easier when they read it. Remember, it's who knows you that counts. QUICK REMINDER: Make sure your follow through message is about them, their business, not a sales pitch for yours.

2: START THE ACTION YOU SUGGESTED: It's natural during conversation to have ideas and make suggestions. If you said "I know someone who. . ." put a call in to the person who wasn't there, suggesting a 3-way lunch. If you mentioned that you read an article, make a copy, jot a note and pop it in the mail. If you talked about a service that someone else needed, fax through a flyer with a note of endorsement. QUICK REMINDER: One purpose of networking is to build credibility so that people will refer their clients to you. Follow through action makes you credible.

3: UPDATE YOUR DATABASE: The most valuable networking asset is a database. Whether you keep yours in a Rolodex, on the computer, or on 5x7 colour coordinated index cards, update it after each event. I include the date and function where we met; info about children, pets, vacations, and how I followed through. QUICK REMINDER: This is the time to add them to your newsletter list. Networking isn't what you do when you need more business - networking is the way to insure that you have a business.

Do good. Network. Make Money