By C.J. Hayden, Contributing Editor
Established professionals and those who are new in business often have a difference of opinion about networking. The old-timers usually say that networking is one of their most important sources of clients, while the newcomers frequently claim to put a lot of effort into networking without seeing much return. What's going on here?
A Quick Definition Review
Let's define the kind of networking that builds business. It's not just circulating through a room exchanging business cards. A broader view of networking is creating a pool of contacts from who you can draw clients, referrals, resources, ideas, and information. Your business network can and should contain colleagues, competitors, a wide range of businesspeople, and personal friends, as well as clients and prospects.
Where To Network
Meeting people at organized events is one of the easiest ways to begin building an extensive network. The first secret to effective networking is choosing the right kind of events to attend. Don't spend all your time networking within your profession. Be sure that some of the events you go to are also attended by potential clients, and by other professionals who may be able to refer business to you.
Here are some popular choices for networking events:
Members-Only Premium Content 
Want to read more? Try our Risk-Free 7 Day RainToday Membership Trial with access to:
- Free Webinars: Access all recorded webinars (full members attend all live webinars free).
- Free Tools and Guides: Receive all how-to guides and tools sold in the RainToday Store free.
- Research and Reports: Receive 20% off all research and benchmark reports.
- 1,000+ Articles: Access over 1,000 professional services marketing, sales, and leadership articles.
- Exclusive Premium Content: Access members-only interviews, templates, and case studies.