The use of networking groups is key to generating contacts and building relationships. It will also produce direct business through referrals. The rapid growth of the networking market in recent years is proof of how widely used this practice has become and what value people now place on it as a business development tool. A healthy mix of appropriate networking groups will not only provide direct benefit, it will help establish your reputation locally as a valued member of the business community. The list below includes some of the more popular networking groups, however, there will be many groups specific to your territory which could be equally valuable –

Key Points

1. Networking will help you to engage with people, encouraging you to speak positively about your business and sell your value proposition to others
   
2. It will help open doors to potential new streams of business through referrals and reciprocal marketing opportunities with like-minded business owners