Write an article based on this "Attend business networking events. Join a virtual community.  Purchase business cards.  Introduce yourself to other business owners. Hand out business cards.  Focus on developing relationships. Keep notes  Follow up with your new connection."
Like in any relationship, it helps to meet people face to face (even if you happened to look them up online beforehand). Business networking events might take the form of seminars, trade shows, chamber of commerce meetings or industry club meetings. Research the event before you attend to find out what will be discussed at the event and, if possible, who will be attending. It is also a good idea to arrive early so that you have time to meet and mingle with other business owners before the event begins. This is particularly helpful if you are a small business startup. Virtual communities can be a great way to make contacts on a wider scale. This can be of great help if your startup does not necessarily focus on the local market. The best way to connect and keep in contact with people you meet while networking is through business cards. There are plenty of websites through which you can order business cards, or you can go into your local printing shop and have them customize business cards for you. Make sure that you print out at least a hundred, if not more--you never know when passing out a business card could lead to a great business connection. In the world of business, its important that you be outgoing. Don't be afraid to jump into a conversation. If you have a particular target in mind, then try to find a shared acquaintance to introduce you and put in a good word for you. Some great networking tips include:  Holding your drink or food in your left hand. That way, you are always ready to shake hands when the time calls for it. Approach people in groups or standing by themselves. Avoid approaching two people talking (unless you know them) because you might be interrupting a private conversation. When you receive a business card, look at it before putting it away--this is a sign of respect. A great way to make and keep connections is by giving out your business card and asking for one in return. You may find another business owner interested in teaming up and promoting each other. It would be upsetting if you didn't get their business card and had to go searching for ways to contact them. Don't be stingy with your business cards. If someone you meet asks for several of them (perhaps to promote your work in his or her store) give them to him/her gladly. When at a networking event, you can expect to talk about your own business and listen to others speak about their own, a lot. This means that you will have to be prepared to explain what it is your business provides and the ways in which you can help other businesses. You should also be prepared to talk about what type of relationship you are seeking from your business connections. Be personable and genuine, and remember that networking has to do with getting to know others just as much as it has to do with letting others get to know you. It is particularly important to develop relationships with other businesses if you are a small business owner. Rather than looking at each other as competitors, think of your new relationships as a way to band together against larger corporations. For instance, if you own a plumbing business, meet a carpenter and agree to recommend each other when asked by your customers. . While business cards function as a mini organizer for contact information, sometimes you may need to write down extra information, ideas, or referrals when speaking to someone at an event. Make sure that you bring a notebook or organizer where you can jot extra information down like recommendations for other networking events, alternate contact information, or meeting dates. When you make contact with a useful business connection, follow up with a phone call, email or letter to request additional face-time to tell them that you enjoyed meeting them and that you would like to keep the connection going. Maybe you have some ideas about how the two businesses can help each other. Ask to either schedule a short office meeting or to talk over lunch.