How do you become a master networker? These three steps can start you on your way:

1. Identify your goals for networking. Before you commit to an organization or online network, decide what you want to achieve through your membership. Networking can help you:

Give and receive leads.
Establish and hone your expertise.
Stay current in your industry and learn best practices.
Give to your community.
Support a cause you believe in.

2. Network in the right places. After you have identified your goals, choose organizations that help you reach them. Include both brick-and-mortar and virtual organizations. Most experts recommend a trade or business organization, a service organization and a social organization.

How will this membership help you reach your goals?
How will you benefit from belonging to this organization?
Does the organization support your values?
3. Get involved and get known. Spend time getting to know people in the organizations you join.

Create your profile and keep it current.
Make sure people know how to contact you.
Join committees and online discussion groups.
Participate in activities and discussions.
Volunteer to head a committee or discussion group.
Become a resource of information and contacts for people in your network.
Share information and contacts with others in your network.
Devote time each week to interacting with members in your network.

Becoming a master networker gives you vast resources for personal and professional growth and support. People do business with people they know. by networking, you get to know others. As you develop valuable resources, you become a valuable resource. Start building your network now to reap huge rewards later.

Patricia Haddock is a communications consultant and trainer with more than 20 years of business writing experience. She teaches business writing and professional development workshops.

Patricia has authored more than 600 magazine articles and 11 books, including The Time Management Workshop - AMACOM, Leadership Skills for Women - Crisp Learning, Developing as a Professional - Crisp Learning, Office Management: A Productivity and Effectiveness Guide - Crisp Learning.

For tips to develop as a professional at work, visit Patricia’s blog at http://developingasaprofessional.blogspot.com

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