Network, network, network

The idea of networking is something you should think of as 'a free way to promote your business and its products or services.' Every person you come in contact with could be a potential customer, distributor, supplier, etc. Or, that person could link you to someone that could help your business along in some aspect. Here are a few ways that you can make sure to make the most of your encounters with people who are going to help your business.

1. Don't be afraid to talk to people about your business. You have to get in the mindset that people will benefit from hearing about the products or services that would be useful to them. Even if you're shy or don't enjoy talking to strangers, you must be confident to talk about your business.

2. Always carry around business cards in your purse or wallet. You would be surprised how many business cards you could pass out in so many different situations. Producing a business card to strangers will also help in the event that you are afraid to talk about your business. Business cards also help give you credibility, among other things.

3. Make sure that every family member, friend, neighbor, etc. knows about your business. The topic of your business will be easy to talk about, especially when you're chatting about 'what is new.' When other people know and understand your business' products and services, then they are likely to talk to other people about it. Case in point: I have a friend whom I discussed my business with during lunch one week. The next time I had lunch with her, she told me about three people that would benefit from my services. That's three leads from just telling her what was going on in my life; my business!

These are just some simple things that you should be aware of and take advantage of, especially when these tactics are virtually free and could reap you enormous benefits.