Anita Campbell interview - CEO and Editor of Small Business Trends

Anita Campbell is CEO of a media business called Small Business Trends, which provides information, articles, audio content and associated consulting services focusing on the small business market and business trends affecting that market.

Her flagship website is the award-winning Small Business Trends, named to the Forbes Best of the Web. Anita also is a prolific writer with articles and columns published at Inc Technology, BNET, Work.com and a variety of other sites and newsletters. She is the host of Small Business Trends Radio, broadcast over the Internet.

She is a recognized expert about the small business market and business trends, her opinion is widely sought and she has been quoted over 50 times in magazines and newspapers such as the Wall Street Journal, the New York Times and MSNBC.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Anita Campbell: Business networking to me means opening up yourself to the wider world, and to new experiences, through meeting new people.

I emphasize the phrase "opening up" because I firmly believe that to network effectively you have to make yourself as accessible as possible -- by phone, published email addresses, website contact forms, networking websites, Skype, you name it.

These days I do 80% of my networking online. Online networking is efficient. You can reach a wider number of people much faster that way. By making yourself more accessible online, more people can connect with YOU if they choose to, also.

I use a variety of methods to network online: my blogs; my Internet radio show/podcast; LinkedIn.com; Facebook.com; and JumpUp.com -- just to name some. Most importantly, I visit and comment on other people's blogs. That's probably the best way to meet business people and make connections.

If you are uncomfortable with the idea of networking online, fearing it may be too impersonal, keep in mind that we are all getting more and more used to communicating electronically. People do not interpret electronic communication as being quite as impersonal or offputting as they may have 5 years ago. Electronic communication is becoming more widely accepted.

Josh: Anita, can you share one or two ideas that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Anita Campbell: While I am a big believer in online networking for today's professionals, that does not mean I dislike personal relationships or want to be emotionally distant.

Here are two pointers for bringing warmth and personal attention to your online networking connections:

(1) Remember to focus on one-on-one communications with people, even if your communications are electronic. At least that way the other people know you are reaching out specifically to them -- and not trying to make your online networking some mass distribution list where you deal with everyone like one more in the crowd.

For instance, I try to soften the "long distance" effect by individual email correspondence, instant messaging, text messaging, and, of course, phone calls.

(2) Another key method to soften the long-distance effect and to supplement your online networking, is to make a point to meet up in person with your online contacts when you travel or attend local events.

For instance, I often will write on my blog when I am going to be attending an event, and invite others to look me up and say "hi." If traveling to a distant city, I will contact my closest connections ahead of time and arrange a dinner or lunch with them.

Josh: Can you share a personal "networking" success story with us?

Anita Campbell: Recently I have had a nice email and commenting exchange with Tim Berry, the founder of Palo Alto Software, makers of BusinessPlan Pro. But for blogging and visiting one another's blogs, I probably would never have had that opportunity. I would have missed the value of his wisdom and experience, and the rich color he brings in his opinions and ideas.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Networking As A Game By Josh Hinds

I'm going to say something that is far overdue...

Business is not meant to be boring! It's not about waking up each morning, dreading starting the day -- and putting on your fanciest outfit -- making sure your shoes are polished to a T and just going through the motions day in and day out.

True, a lot of people see it this way... as something that's needed to survive -- a necessary evil if you will.

But it doesn't have to be viewed this way. In fact, a lot of people (everyone I've interviewed here on BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com) don't see their professional lives in this light.

So what's the difference?

The difference my friend is found in their mindset. The same mindset I think you'll have adopted for yourself by the time you've finished reading this :-)

Ready? Good, onward! ...

What will follow are some ideas you can implement to make business fun -- particularly the aspect of networking (i.e. developing connections both personally and professionally).

I'm not going to get into a deep discussion about how to network effectively -- that's well covered in the countless interviews that I've conducted and include here.

However, it is worth pointing out that for our purposes we'll say that effective networkers look to create solid relationships with others -- by first focusing on how they can be of service to the person they want to create a connection with. Simply put, it's not about, what they can get from the person, but rather how they can first (and going forward) create value and best serve the people they have connected with.

Still with me? Good -- repeat after me please...

Business is fun when I adopt the mindset that each day I will look to create value in the eyes of those I've met, or wish to connect with. Got it? Make sure you commit that to memory because it's the whole point of what I'm about to get into, and it will actually have a bearing on how much fun you start to have in your business or professional life going forward.

Playing The Part Of The Connector

There's an important aspect in networking referred to as being a connector -- think of it like this... You can connect someone in a number of different ways. A few examples might include: introducing someone to someone else where there would be some synergy there and where the two folks would benefit from meeting each other.

Another approach might be to supply some valuable information to someone that they would appreciate. This could be in the form of a book, some industry related knowledge, maybe you know they have a hobby -- you could supply information related to that, the point is you're creating value in the eyes of the other person.

And... pay attention because this is a BIG "and"... you're connecting them for their benefit and not yours! Some folks can't get around this concept. It's like they've been trained to think they have to "get theirs" first. Those who are adept at the art of effective networking understand that the exact opposite is true.

You don't have to believe this yourself -- but you do have to practice it as though it's true. As you put this idea into practice you'll see the reality of it unfold in your life -- and that's a promise! (I speak, train and coach on networking and I can assure you I've seen this idea to be proven true countless times).

So here are some games I want you to play each day... yes I did say play! Remember, business is fun. Not boring!

Networking Reminder Cards

I love 3x5 index cards. I keep my goals on them, action steps (lists of things to do) -- new folks I've met (before I load them into my Contact Management Solution -- by the way at the time of this writing I'm using Oprius.com). I also use what is called a universal binder clip -- if you don't know what that is do a search on it and you'll immediately recognize it.

I like that particular clip because it holds the cards nice and snug, and if you place it on the card just right it'll even let you stand your 3x5 index cards up. But enough about the cards and clip :-)

Give me the steps to the Networking Game already...

So you take your 3x5 index card and on it you write the name of one person you've met. It really doesn't even matter how well you know that person. In fact, it'll just help to strengthen the relationship with them anyway if you don't know them that well already.

So you've got the persons name written down on your card (include their business name and what they do if it's applicable).

On the next line, write -- "I'm having fun in business by connecting this person to:"

Then following that statement you choose another person you've met who you feel would be a good connection for the first person you identified. If you're going the route of connecting the person to a valuable source of information -- or even a referral source of new business just write the same thing, but include what your providing rather than the other persons name.

The most important thing is that you actually do this. And of course that you act on what you've written on your cards.

Now I can tell you, several things are going to happen. First, you really will start to have more fun in your business or career. If you doubt me, think about how good it makes you feel to do something nice for another person. The same holds true in business. And that's exactly what you're doing. Creating value for other folks.

Another thing you'll notice is that people are drawn to you -- and why wouldn't they be? After all you're doing what 99% of the other people they're coming into contact with aren't doing -- putting the focus on helping them.

Just to spice up the idea above, on the back of each card write down the results you get as they unfold. Just so we're clear, we're not keeping score on the good we've done. Rather we're recording the results because they will make it clear that the game we've played worked.

There's an old saying I love which says, success begets success. What that means to me is that a feeling of achievement creates a snowball effect and ends up propelling us forward in our pursuits and endeavors. The same can happen when we're hit with something negative -- it can have the effect of slowing us down (or if we're not careful -- stopping us completely).

So you track your results from the game you're playing so that you can experience that feeling of success -- the helpful reminder that what you're doing is creating positive results.

Once again, repeat after me...

Business is fun!

Now get out there and start making it so...

Happy Networking -- and remember...

It's your life, LIVE BIG!
Josh Hinds :-)

* Josh is a speaker, trainer and coach who teaches on Effective Networking and Personal Branding. To learn more about having him speak to your organization visit www.GetMotivation.com/speaker

(c) All rights reserved.

Rich Swier Interview - Entrepreneur and Angel Investor

Rich Swier is an evangelist for building a stronger entrepreneurial community in the State of Florida and has spoken at multiple national conferences on the state of Venture Capital, and his vision of "Venture Creation".

Rich invests in emerging companies through his venture capital firm Startup Florida. Startup Florida is the first managed angel fund and venture creation company in the State of Florida.

Prior to Startup Florida, Rich founded numerous successful companies, including: Sarasota Online, one of the first Internet Service Providers and Online City Guides in Florida -- which was later acquired by Comcast Cable (CMCSA) as the prelude to a national rollout of its cable-modem network.

I'm pleased to bring you Rich Swier...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Rich Swier: Business Networking is simply building relationships for building your business. Business Networking is important because it truly is the only way to effectively grow your business.

Most people think about Networking as a way to get new customers, but in reality networking is about meeting people that can bring new opportunities to you personally and your business.

A great example, is finding a great sales person to hire. Before I would ever place an ad in the classifieds, I would go to my network and ask people I trust for referrals.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Rich Swier: I recommend everyone embrace a simple principal - focus on giving. The best way to build a relationship, and ultimately connect with people is to understand their business and their needs, and see if there is a way to help them succeed.

As an example, I believe one of the best places to network and build relationships in a community are local charities. Getting involved in the community is a great way to improve your network and your skills, because you are not driven by self-interest, but driven by a community goal.

Josh: Rich, you're one of the founders of Fast Pitch! a business networking community. Can you tell us a bit about what makes it unique, as well as how it can benefit someone in their networking efforts.

Rich Swier: Fast Pitch is a social network for business, but we believe we have tapped into something very unique and valuable to our members. The key to the entire community is that we connect people based on content they create. We don’t just depend on the existing relationships they have, but instead we allow them to contribute to the community, and based on how much they contribute their network will flourish.

Over the past year, we have added the capability for members to add their blogs, post press releases and include interactive video and podcasts on their profiles. We have found that the members who create and share content have the most successful networks and experience on Fast Pitch.

Josh: How do you encourage referrals from your network?

Rich Swier: Fast Pitch (www.fastpitchnetworking.com) is truly a community-oriented network. We encourage our members to build relationships based on shared interests or goals. When a member joins Fast Pitch! we analyze their profile and start connecting them to other members based on questions we have asked including industry, geography and what they buy and sell.

We recently launched Groups as part of Fast Pitch which allows users to create communities where users can join a group and share thoughts, networks and ultimately do business.

Josh: With first impressions being so important, can you share some effective ways to begin a conversation?

Rich Swier: The best advice I can give someone is to always start off with a questions. The best way to connect with someone is to ask the questions about their family, their work and their background. As you learn more about them you will be able to find similarities and shared interests that you can connect with and potentially build a relationship.

(Shameless Plug) - One of the key components we studied at Fast Pitch is the Member Profile, and how to build a profile to model a "first impression conversation". We include a person’s background, work history and information that another member could read in less than a minute to see if there is a connection.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

April Groves Interview - Real Estate Agent and Blogger

April Groves is the wife of one, the mother of four, a Navy vet, and a full time real estate agent. She has recently taken on the title of avid blogger. She is passionate about children, education, and positive contribution. She enjoys reading, discussing politics over coffee, and Rocky Balboa -- even Rocky V.

She lives in coastal Georgia and can’t imagine being anywhere else -- even when it’s hot. She runs a blog called, Making Life Work for You.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

April Groves: We live in a world of options. Consumers have so many places in which to spend their hard earned dollar. This is the crux of why business networking is important. People want to do business with people they can trust.

My idea of Business Networking is that it is the vehicle in which one can build that trust. It is my best opportunity to learn who I can do business with for my personal needs.

More importantly, it also affords me the opportunity to establish relationships with folks I can feel comfortable in referring their services. It is common for my clients to ask me for my recommendation for an auto repairman, hair dresser, pet sitter... the list is long. It is my main goal to effectively serve my clients -- giving them great resources is part of that service.

Networking also allows people to get to know me as an individual. This is great for me in two ways. First, hopefully things go well and they will look to me as someone they can do business with or refer others to. Second, they are able to teach me things that I would not have learned from a book or a seminar. These people are getting to know me so they are typically better equipped to give constructive feedback and development suggestions.

Josh: Can you share one or two ideas that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

April Groves: The best thing I learned is the difference between a networking event and sales call. If you miss the difference between these two, the results can be disastrous.

If you are on a sales call, typically the person you are speaking with is a potential client. You carry that conversation as such. However, a networking opportunity is different. You aren’t there to make direct sales -- you are there to create resources and relationships -- sales come later. I have noticed that there are always a few folks who seem less involved with others at these events. Their common quality is that they always seem to be asking every person, in one way or another, for a check.

Stated differently, effective networking is not about selling every person in the room. It is about being remembered after the event as someone who was a real person.

For me, I strive to be remembered as the person who is interested in the people around me. It is my goal at every event I attend to assist at least one other person in achieving their goals. It is this offering of support without expectation that makes my life meaningful as a person. It also has the residual benefit of growing my business.

Josh: April, do you see any common mistakes people tend to make when it comes to attempting to make business connections? If so what are they and what corrections could they make in your opinion which would help them to be more effective in their approach towards networking?

April Groves: Folks seem to do better when they place more emphasis on the person they are talking to than on themselves. So, I guess that would mean that the biggest mistake I see is people who are tense and overanxious.

They feel like they have lost an opportunity if they don’t give their entire pitch within the first two minutes of meeting a person. In fact, the opposite is true. I spoke earlier about the trust factor. Encouraging people to speak to you rather than you talking at them is a major piece of the trust structure. Engaging others in conversation will produce more benefits than swapping cards and pitches.

The best advice I was ever given in networking came from my husband. I was scared to death walking out the door to my first event. You see, I had spent the previous 11 years in coveralls and combat boots with the US Navy. This was a whole new (and intimidating) world for me.

My husband looked at me and said, "Remember, you are the coolest person in the room. You like people and people like you. Relax and everything will be fine." I still felt like an elephant in a room of swans, but it was a good first step. "Relax" was the key.

If you are living your life with good will and good intentions, if you strive to be ethical and exceptional at your profession and you believe strongly in the benefit of assisting others, networking events will morph themselves into everything you ever needed them to be for your business.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Interview with Liz Strauss of Successful-Blog.com

According to EatonWeb, "Liz Strauss is perhaps the most influential relational blogger on the Internet." Her blog -- Liz Strauss at Successful Blog -- has been called both a destination and an event.

Liz Strauss has worked over 20 years in print, software, and online publishing, and strategized with publishers from around the world. She has worked with entrepreneurs, small businesses, companies in crisis, and corporate giants. Liz led the vision behind last year's SOBCon07 -- The Relationship Bloggers' Conference that gained the attention of BusinessWeek, the Chicago Sun-Times, and the Innovation Initiative of the Kellogg School of Business.

I'm pleased to bring you Liz Strauss...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Liz Strauss: Business networking is getting to know people, plain and simple. Every person we know is a possible business partner in some way. Some day I might need a service person, a bartender to help with an event I'm putting together, the one that I'm friends with at the fine hotel where we often have dinner very well could know or be the right person.

Networking is getting to know each individual in a personal way and letting that person know you as well, forming friendship of a helpful sort in which you both care about the good will and progress of the other.

Great networking comes from a sincere interest in people and a deep feeling of generosity -- a wanting to see others do well. The great networkers I know don't network for business they network for people. They do it because it makes them feel good to help when they can.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Liz Strauss: Make a habit. I started a program called Blogger a Day. It was my habit. I call a blogger a day just to talk. I announced it on my blog and people email me to set up a time for a conversation. I've met hundreds of bloggers that way. The conversations are as unique as the bloggers. Somehow we always find something to say.

Other folks might find it easier to choose a number of new blogs to comment on -- sticking to those same blogs for an entire month until they have connected with several people, then perhaps dropping a blog and picking up a new one every week or so after. That could be another way to network into some new people connections. :)

Josh: Liz, what events, places, or resources (online or off-line) have you found to be especially good for networking? And based on your experience what makes them stand out?

Liz Strauss: Open Comment Night on my blog, every Tuesday at 7pm CST, gets high marks, because it draws a wide-range of people who are friendly and there are always new people in the mix. I think that we're always talking about subjects that don't require research of special knowledge and that we play quite a bit makes it a perfect place to make friends.

Small blogger meet ups tend to be the same way. I like them because in a smaller group, folks are less likely to form little pockets of people who talk to each other and never move. SOBCon07 which was relational was built around everyone being in one room. So once again the community tended to form and people became closer and conversation went deep.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Laura Ries Interview - Marketing Expert and Brand Building Strategist

Laura Ries is president of Ries & Ries, an Atlanta-based marketing strategy firm that she runs with her father and partner Al Ries. Together they have written four books including the best-selling The Fall of Advertising & the Rise of PR and The 22 Immutable Laws of Branding.

Laura also writes a popular branding blog, OriginofBrands.com and appears as a frequent guest on CNN, CNN Headline, CNBC and Fox News. You can watch her new marketing video reports on RiesReport.com.

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Laura Ries: Business networking is making connections, maintaining friendships and using contacts to share ideas, seek answers and find prospects.

Josh: Can you share a couple of ideas that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Laura Ries: Be a good listener. Business networking requires personal networking skills. You need to be a good friend first. Listen, care and give back. If you only take and ask, you'll have no success in building a network.

Josh: Laura, based on your experiences, which places and activities have you found best for meeting new people and expanding your business network?

Laura Ries: Associations, conferences and PR events are all good places. But so are the random unexpected places like airplanes, vacations, or the gym.

Sitting next to some one on an airplane is one of the best ways I have made a new contact. You have to be lucky and fly a lot.

But the point is you never know where or when you'll meet somebody. So be friendly, get out and meet lots of new people.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Anita Bruzzese Interview - Author, Journalist and WorkPlace Expert

Anita Bruzzese is a syndicated columnist and author who shares a wealth of knowledge with her readers on workplace issues. Her column "On the Job" is featured in dozens of newspapers and websites every week, with a readership of more than eight million. She is the author of both: "45 Things You Do That Drive Your Boss Crazy" and "Take This Job And Thrive".

Josh: Anita, how do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Anita Bruzzese: I think business networking is like social networking in some ways -- it's about getting to know people because you share common interests.

It's also about being able to bring something to the relationship, not just being "me, me, me" all the time. But instead of sharing your vacation photos as you would with a social contact, you share information and ideas in a professional, mutually respectful way.

I think it's important because no matter what high-tech communication gadgets are out there, they cannot replace the creative, collaborative, enthusiastic interchange that goes on among human beings.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Anita Bruzzese: Personally, I don't think anything can teach you how to network better than watching someone in action who is really good at it. Watch the person's body language, how they greet someone, how they listen, the questions they ask, etc.

Join a professional organization and watch for the person that people smile at and seem comfortable with -- this might not be the person making the most money or holding the big title -- but it will be someone that everyone seems to gravitate toward.

Too often, I hear complaints about the person who wants to network, but is constantly checking the Blackberry, scanning the room to see who else is there or just fails to be courteous. Yeah, gee...who wouldn't want to network with THAT person??

Josh: Can you share some of the ways you use the internet for business networking?

Anita Bruzzese: I've used it quite a bit in the last six months, especially since I've been promoting my book, "45 Things You Do That Drive Your Boss Crazy." But let me add that I still am very cautious. You know when your Mom used to warn you that you're known by the company you keep? The same is true of the Internet. You want to make sure you stay in the "right" neighborhoods and don't just jump on anything that comes along.

If someone wants a connection, understand who they are and what they do, and who they are associated with. Don't be afraid about not fostering every connection that comes along. I have some people that I really trust, and rely on them to help lead me through unknown territories. People are opting out of LinkedIn every day, because they feel "used" by others who just want to add their names as a way to get what they want, with no interest in fostering a genuine relationship.

I also blog (www.45things.com), which at first, I thought: "Why am I doing this to myself...I have enough to do without adding this to the list!" But I have to say it's brought me some great contacts. Let me add, however, that it's brought me great contacts because I am focused on offering a blog that benefits others by educating them about career issues and resources. So, I think people feel like I am genuine about what I do, and will not betray their trust. And, let's face it: Without trust, networking just falls apart.

*brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Josh Hinds Interviewed by Drew McLellan...

Drew McLellan over at Drew's Marketing Minute interviewed me (now that's a switch eh? :-) -- if you'd like to check out what I had to say you can read Drew's interview with me here.

Here's a sneak peek on what he asked me:

Q. When did you start your interview series and what prompted it?
Q. Are there any themes you see among the answers that really resonate with you?
Q. Who is the one person you'd like to interview but haven't snagged yet?

Once again, you'll find my answers to the questions above here.

--Happy Networking, Josh Hinds :-)

Drew McLellan Interview - Marketing and Branding Expert

Drew McLellan has excelled in the advertising and marketing arena. After working for several other agencies, including Young and Rubicam’s CMF&Z, Drew created McLellan Marketing Group in 1995.

Considered a national branding expert, Drew is a highly sought after speaker and has given countless presentations at national conferences and key note addresses.

Over the years, Drew has lent his expertise to clients like Nabisco, IAMS pet foods, Kraft Foods, Meredith Publishing, John Deere, Iowa Health System, Make-A-Wish, University of Central Florida, SkiDoo and a wide array of others. He maintains a blog at Drew’s Marketing Minute.

I'm pleased to bring you Drew McLellan...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Drew McLellan: I think the word networking has been dragged through the mud by all the events and people who think of networking as a superficial "what’s in it for me" sort of activity. It’s not just to collect a stack of business cards from strangers.

Networking, when done right, is about meeting new people and connecting them to the people and resources they need.

Without expectation of the favor being returned.

You do good simply to do good. And trust that somewhere along the way, that good will is going to come back to you.

I believe networking is important because the more we help people get what they want, the more likely we are going to get what we want. Not always from the same person -- but in general. I think one of the greatest positions to be in as a businessperson is a connector.

Josh: Can you share a couple of ideas that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Drew McLellan: Flip through your rolodex: Go through your rolodex (or however you keep your contacts) and look for two people who would benefit from meeting each other. Write an e-mail to both, describing why you think they should know each other and then get out of the way and watch what happens.

Ask follow up questions: In most networking situations, the conversations stay very short and very superficial. At your next event, plan on staying with each conversation longer and ask more questions. Dig for how you might be of service to the person you’re talking to and don’t flip to the next person until you’ve discovered how you can.

Josh: How do you encourage referrals from your network?

Drew McLellan: I don’t, at least not in an intentional way. I just try to be as helpful as I can be. I make connections where I can. And I’m always glad to spend a little time with someone on the phone or over coffee, answering questions about branding or marketing. I’m glad to give away a sample of what we sell. That way, hopefully the person will speak from first hand experience about how good/smart we are.

I have learned over the years that if I give without reservation, it will come back to me. I never know how or when, but I do know sooner or later, it all balances out.

And if the scales tip a little unevenly and I give more than I get... so be it. I’m good with that.

*Brought to you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com

Interview with Kevin B. Levi of WinningMessage.com

Kevin B. Levi is the author of Differentiate or Diminish: The Art and Necessity of Business Positioning. Kevin is a 13-year PR/marketing/writing professional who most recently served as Senior Manager of Strategic Customer Messaging for a $1.2B drug development company.

He now owns a small business offering business writing services called Winning Message LLC. You can receive a free copy of his book by visiting his site or by sending him a request to info@winningmessage.com

Now without further ado it's my pleasure to bring you the interview with Kevin B. Levi...

Josh: How do you define Business Networking and why do you feel it is important?

Kevin B. Levi: Business networking is the process of promoting your brand and your business through social and business interaction with friends, colleagues, clients and prospects.

As a new small business owner I know that networking is imperative. The adage that - it's not what you know but rather who you know - is unbelievably accurate! Without spreading your wings and getting in touch with new and old contacts, your business will be dead in the water.

Josh: Can you share one idea that someone could put into practice that would help them to improve their business networking skills?

Kevin B. Levi: I'll give you a couple of ideas...

1. Join your local chamber of commerce and also an affiliated (or unaffiliated) networking group. The whole intent of these groups is to exchange business leads. Join and start exchanging.

2. Cultivate a contacts list (preferably email addresses) of clients and prospects and ping them once a month or so with relevant information/content they can use. This will keep you and your brand in their mind and when they need products or services that you offer, you will be top of mind to them.

A great way to cultivate email addresses is to write a short book or have someone do this for you on some hot topic relevant to your business. Offer the book as a free download in exchange for an email address. I myself have done this and garnered over 50 email addresses in the last six weeks alone.

Josh: Can you share some of the ways you use the internet for business networking?

Kevin B. Levi: Create your own blog or online newsletter perhaps similar to mine where you post and syndicate from other sites relevant content pertaining to your business.

People will find you via search engines and will read your content and post comments. Promote your brand and your services on every page and again offer your e-book. Basically in doing so you are creating your own little networking forum.

* brought you by BusinessNetworkingAdvice.com