The first part is to know how you are going to market yourself.

When doing this, you need to be aware of the Australian culture, your own personality and the event you are at. I would like you to develop a two minute commercial of yourself that can be used at a networking event.

Adelaide is a different market to the eastern cities to network in. You are likely to 'run into' the same people at different events so it is also about building long term relationships.

What are some of the things that you do currently to market yourself?

What are some of the things you could be doing better to market yourself?

Networking is simple. Networking is powerful. Networking makes the marketing process easier and more enjoyable. It is not an out of business activity and is vital to your success. They say that some of the most powerful deals are conducted through effective networking.

Here are some principles:

1. Network smart - target where you go. Perhaps take 1-2 other people from your organisation. Go where the visibility of your organisation is important.

2. Try to learn something about the individual - don't get to an event and pass as many cards around and get as many in return. People hate nothing more when talking to you to see that you are already assessing who you can go and meet next. You are better off meeting five people and finding out something about them so that a relationship can be established.

3. Tell people how you can help them - when talking to current or potential clients don't focus on your company. Focus on how you may be able to help. One of the questions I always ask is 'what would you like to improve that you don't have time to do?'

4. Be genuine about who you are when you are talking to people. Share a personal aspect you are comfortable with in the conversation.

5. Follow up from that event by an e-mail, phone call, visit. Send them relevant information that is of interest to them.

By Shivani Reiter, Owner and Principal, Reiter Business Consulting