There are many reasons to seek out networking opportunities:

• access information – Attending a networking event is an excellent opportunity to keep up to date with the latest developments in your business sector. For example, a software developer attending an engineering convention will naturally meet other developers, but is unlikely to gain new clients. It may give you the chance to meet others who can act as a professional resource for you. Peers you develop a strong connection with can mentor you, and share experiences to help you overcome problems they've encountered.
• pursue new clients – Some networking events allow you to meet current and potential clients face-to-face. It may be a good idea to meet some of these prospects outside normal business settings. You could, for example, organize a round of golf, attend a sporting event, or invite someone to lunch to talk informally and build trust with your potential clients.
• develop career – To develop your career, you should consider becoming an active learner. Take a class or attend a seminar to expand your knowledge of a particular business subject. Not only will you develop on a personal level, you can also use these sessions to network with people who share the same interests and goals.

Networking opportunities

There are four common networking opportunities you can use to build your reputation and develop your business connections. First, there's what can be called internal networking. You can always network within your own company. Second, there are professional organizations you could join. Third, there are trade shows or conferences you could attend. And finally, you could use virtual networking to reach an even wider global audience.

Internal networking

The first networking opportunity is internal networking within your own organization. The idea is to build relationships there that can make you more effective in your job and help your organization meet its goals more easily. Networking doesn't always involve seeking external contacts and assistance. By building up relationships with your colleagues at work, you create a pool of talent, skills, and experience that can be drawn on to everyone's benefit.

Professional organizations

The second networking opportunity you can use is to join a professional organization. No matter what your level of experience, you may occasionally need expert advice and mentoring to help you reach your goals. Professional associations can help you establish the necessary network to access vital information and support.

Professional associations can be aimed at a wide range of management levels, such as managing directors, administrators, and executives. Members of a particular association may also include businesspeople from different industries. For example, an association for the self-employed could consist of businesspeople with engineering, retail, or marketing backgrounds.

Professional associations are often affiliated with academic institutions, which may offer members insights into business sectors based on the latest research. They may also sponsor conventions and conferences connected with a particular industry. Joining an association can give you access to information on the latest trends, international standards, and best practices. Remember that networking is a two-way process that should benefit both parties, so try to share your own expertise with members of an association. When deciding which association to join, you should first create a list of possible associations, then do your research to find out which of these are the most suitable.

Trade show and conferences

The third networking opportunity you can make use of is trade shows and conferences. These events are usually linked to specific industry sectors, and provide opportunities – both as an exhibitor and as an attendee – to make connections with people related to your profession. Attending conferences is not just about swapping business cards and rubbing shoulders with your peers; it's about building a quality network of new contacts and business prospects.

Before attending a trade show or conference, there are several networking tips to consider:

1. Make a list – Before you attend the trade show or conference, find out who'll be exhibiting or speaking. Then make a list of the companies or people who you think will be most relevant to your business area.
2. Prepare by researching – After you know who'll be attending, learn as much as you can about the people or companies you'd like to speak to the most. Think about what you want to ask them, and prepare questions in advance to help stimulate conversations.
3. Get contact details – If attendees are unable to answer your questions, make sure to get their contact details so you can remind them later of any issues you had. Look through business cards and pamphlets for contact details of people or companies that you would like to add to your network. It may be a good idea to record details such as web sites, e-mail addresses, and phone numbers in a contacts database for future reference.
4. Follow up on new contacts – Don't forget to follow up quickly with any new contacts you've made. For prospective new clients or other important contacts, set up an appointment so you can talk in greater detail later. You can then use this opportunity to demonstrate how your relationship can be mutually beneficial. You should also follow up with other attendees that you're unlikely to rely upon in the future. Send an e-mail or letter thanking them for their time and input.

Virtual networking

Virtual networking is the fourth kind of networking opportunity. Online social media is increasingly being used by professionals as a means of easily finding and sharing information. It can also have an immediate impact on your business by offering a global audience an insight into your company's services and products.

Two popular networking web sites are Facebook and LinkedIn. Both of these services allow you to establish your own personal profile, which can help you make a connection with new contacts. Some social networking web sites also allow you to join or create groups directly related to your skillset or business sector. These groups can offer support and advice, and even help you brainstorm new ideas. In addition to joining groups, you'll have access to a list of connections through contacts in your own group. You can ask people in your group to refer you to other contacts, and help extend your existing network. Keep in mind, however, that you should manage and check the value of each of your online contacts. Try to limit your contacts to those you have meaningful relationships with – connections who you regularly network with, or who share your values.

Virtual networking sites offer you a chance to tell your story. Details about your educational background, previous projects, and former employers can all add to your credibility. Try to include as many professional details as possible. An incomplete or vague profile may send out a negative message – others may believe that you're not contributing anything useful, and are only using the site to look up other people. Try to participate actively in group discussions by making a positive contribution through your input. However, remember that anything you include in your profile is available in a public environment. Be respectful of other people's privacy, and don't share any confidential information that may be detrimental to your past or current employers. Make sure to adapt your profile to an online audience – use an upbeat, user-friendly tone to generate interest in you and your organization. Spend some time proofreading your profile, and avoid using management jargon, which may appear too formal or impersonal.

Networking can help you access new information, pursue prospective clients, and develop personally and professionally. There are several different networking opportunities you can avail yourself of to help build your reputation and work more effectively. Internal networking can help you develop strong relationships with your colleagues. Joining professional associations can provide a network of contacts you can rely on for support, advice, and mentorship. Attending trade shows and conferences may give you access to industry-specific information and to people who share the same goals and values as you. Finally, virtual networking is a low-cost and high-impact way of reaching out to new contacts, and can help you keep track of former colleagues and the latest industry trends.