If you're running any sort of business, large or small, than you probably know that you can't survive all alone. Every business requires the help of other services and industries to stay afloat and keep their operations running. You may be a factory owner who needs case packaging systems to ship your product or an event planner who needs access to a wealth of party supplies. Whatever your business, it's a good idea to network within your own industry and adjacent sectors. Even if you don't require the services of another professional now, you never know what the future might bring.

One of the best places to network is within your own city and community. You can create lasting relationships with people who work close by and will get a more personal touch than working with those across the country. This is also a great way to feed the economy that you work in, which may just have a positive impact on your business. If you run a company that needs compression fittings, for example, consider going with a smaller local supplier rather than the big national names. They will be more appreciative of your business and shipping times will never be a problem.

One way to network within your own community is to become involved in the New Haven Chamber of Commerce. This is an organization designed to bring small businesses together and help them survive in their early years. You could be running a small specialty store downtown or have your own office as an electronic design consultant and they can help set you up with everything from potential clients to people that can help you organize your end of the year finances. Take advantage of the services offered by the city of New Haven.

Be open minded to any sort of business relationship. Just because you're running a small online clothing store does not mean that you will never benefit from a collaboration with someone who installs instant water heaters. You could share advertising space with them or simply exchange useful services down the road. Sharing costs with other small businesses is always a good idea. This includes expensive office supplies or even an office space.

When you attend networking events (which you should always try to do) make sure that you're memorable to the people that you meet. Find something that sets you apart from the other people working directly in your field and always have a wealth of business cards on you. Also, don't be afraid to reintroduce yourself to people you've met before. Business relationships are not usually made from just one meeting. If you're at a conference for corporate event planning Toronto for example, you may meet a hundred people in a day. If you meet them again in a less hectic setting, take that opportunity to reintroduce yourself. Remember initiative and persistence are great qualities to have when building business relationships.