Networking is key - keep a lifelong contact list.

Most people start to network when they are unhappy in their jobs or have been made redundant. I on the other hand have been networking and maintaining relationships since I had a Saturday job. In fact at least 5% of my LinkedIn contacts are people I met between the ages of 14-18 in work. Networking can feel 'itchy' to some but the leaders of tomorrow must be encouraged to have a business network outside of their longstanding employment.

Some companies place such value on their existing and prospective customer knowledge database that they quantify it and put it on the balance sheet as a intangible asset. Companies have changed hands because one bought another for it's market information and mergers have taken place where the only real synergy was complimentary client lists. My version of this is my social and professional networks. I never take anyone off it as you never know when you may need each other. I write notes against each contact remembering how we met and what I remember about them socially and vocationally.

Everyone talks about networking and how it’s so important for your business, but when it comes down to it, not many people know how to do it and why it’s so valuable.

No matter what your business, if you’re a up and coming musician, a publicist or an accountant, it’s important to know people in your industry. Industry connections, no matter the context, can make a considerable difference when it comes to growing and maintaining your business. People you meet along the way in life can help you to learn new things, and with our ever changing culture, you never know who you will need in your corner in the future.

Now you know why you network, but how do you go about doing it? First and foremost, it’s important to always look presentable. No matter where you are, whether it’s at the office, at a concert, or running errands, first impressions are crucial! There’s nothing worse than meeting your future employer looking like a total mess.

But you can’t always expect people to come to you. So really make an effort when it comes to networking. Seek out places to meet people and engage accordingly. You can always count on conferences and festivals, but with all the access we have in the digital age, tools like LinkedIn can be a great asset for connecting and networking. Join relevant groups and start discussions. Share contact information, and always be sure to follow up with the connections you make along the way. After all, you never know when you might need something down the road.

Networking also isn’t limited to your industry. Be sure to, wherever you are, ask. Ask people what they do for a living, get to know them better and see how they might be able to help you in your business.

Put your network of contacts to work on your career at all times as you never know when someone you used to know will come around again.