Networking is a little bit like fishing. It takes time.

We need to pick the spot – find the right conditions for you

Is it fairly local?

Fair Weather, without any competition or potential snags?

Do we have the right tools? A smile, business cards, pen perhaps …

We need to prepare the pool to ensuring the audience know that we are regularly around and that we have a better chance with our cast (or message in this case)

The Lure – are the conditions right?

People buy seasonally, try and adapt your offer to the marketplace

Have patience.   And throw the little ones back. It takes time …

After you plant the seed, give the potential a chance to grow, if the work on offer is not right for you, say so and point your colleague in the right direction.

You know they will be back and that you will be rewarded down the line.