No man is an island- famous and true words but it also holds truth that- no small business is an island. These words mean that a person cannot survive on his own and for the same matter; no small business can survive on its own. We need each other and as small businesses are owned by human beings, small businesses need each other to ensure the owner can survive.

In business terms we talk about networking. No business can therefore survive without networking. Networking involves building relationships with like-minded people, discovering and creating opportunities to assist each other to survive in the business jungle and in the process achieving mutual goals of the businesses.

Networking is a very important tool in managing any business. To apply networking to ensure maximum benefits for your business, you must know what you want to gain from networking. Compile a plan which clearly defines your networking needs in other words why do you need to start networking. Reasons for networking may include recruiting new clients, expanding and exchanging information, offering advice to other businesses and obtaining information from other businesses. Your plan should stipulate who you need to meet, where you would meet them, how you would get your targets attention and arouse their interest in you.

You should go out and campaign for support. It is like running a political campaign. Conferences, business seminars, community and government functions, exhibitions, shows and fairs are the places to be. That is where you would meet like-minded people. The Internet is also where you should be seen. The internet offers a fantastic and affordable opportunity for the small business owner to build beneficial relationships beyond the borders of space and time. Look out for organisations who often host events especially for their members to meet and network. It must be a habit to go out and meet people and join organisations.

When you go out, do not be selfish do not go out with the attitude how can I benefit. You must have the attitude of how can we benefit. The saying you can have everything that you want in life if you will just help other people to get what they want holds very true and it should be your motto. You should genuinely care about other people and show an interest in their affairs. Do not expect quick results networking may not produce results immediately. Building quality networking can take time. Be patient.

The first meeting should be to exchange mutual pleasantries do not try to strike a sale or contract during this first meeting. There would be more than enough follow up meetings and opportunities on condition you do not blow your chances during the first meeting. The first meeting is about showing the other party that you are sincere, genuine interested, likable and a trust worthy person. People would be able to get an impression of your business by the way you carry yourself.

Make sure you are knowledgeable on the topics you would discuss. Encourage them to air their views and listen attentively to what they have to say. Be polite but use every opportunity to market yourself.

Do not underestimate the value of business cards. They are not there to be collected just to fatten your wallet. They would never make money by themselves. Money is made when you follow-up calls and arrange to meet definitely again after the first meeting. The real big deals and contracts would only realize during the second or third and even later meetings. If you do not follow-up or at least keep in regular contact, why not just close shop!

A fallacy is that just exchanging business cards with as many people as possible makes you well connected. What a waste! The business card is useful tool that helps to ensure that you are contactable and remembered. It is the way you build and sustain relationships that will bring success in business.

In conclusion, networking is there to build strong business relationships, meet new customers, find financial partners or investors, raise awareness of your business, learn new business skills and grows your business.

Networking is an interesting facet of managing your business. Without it, it is very doubtful whether you would survive, because a business is not an island. You and your business would need other businesses and their owners to survive. Make a move and let the world know you and your business exist.

Networking is an investment!