At a time that money is tight and resources are lean, it is the people you know or are close to that keep your business afloat.  They open doors to opportunities you never thought possible.

Networking is a discipline that is fast becoming a requirement.  When finance managers are pinching pennies and investors tend to err on the side of caution, good, old barter agreements can keep your promotional campaigns afloat and a friend in the right department can keep your company on the supplier list, instead of cutting it out.

Here are some networking tips:

First impressions last: It starts with a handshake, a warm smile and occasional kind word.  In networking, one deals with people to be more precise  individuals.  Not the impersonal bean counter.  Before favors can be requested, openness has to be established and trust has to be earned and kept for a long time.

Be a people person: To pull this off, you have to genuinely like people.  You get enthused initiating contracts and time passes by in quiet enjoyment over a conversation.  You can’t do PR without wanting to know or understand people.

Work the Room: When meeting people for the first time, especially if it’s a room full of strangers, a firm but gentle handshake says a lot about you.  Also, extend a business card with your contact particulars, like your mobile phone number and e-mail address.  If you are particular about privacy, save the home number for contacts who have grown into friends.

Always remember that networking is all about discovering the beauty of the other person and not ramming your agenda at the onset.  Successful networking is not just an art, it is a way of life.