Speak right at these business functions; you'll make valuable connections and develop powerful relationships.

Let's focus on the wrong first. I recently attended a meeting of entrepreneurs -- savvy business owners all, representing an interesting mix of industries. While networking, I met another entrepreneur and mentioned I was going to a Chamber of Commerce event the next day. My colleague was aghast, citing the poor return he'd had from attending a chamber meeting. I asked him why he thought such a networking opportunity was a waste of time. He explained he'd been to one meeting, handed out a bunch of cards,yet never got any business.

That's no surprise -- he didn't speak right. No one can go to an association event or business function and expect instant results. Here's the right way to approach these meetings.
Since I was old enough to listen, I've heard wise teachers and mentors admonish "you get out of something what you put into it." Networking is no exception. A person who goes to one meeting will never get business. Networking involves engagement and participation. It involves volunteering for committees and gaining visibility. And it involves work.

Yes, work. It's a commitment for the long-haul because you're establishing relationships and sowing seeds. Last, but not least, it involves speaking right and making connections. Here are nine quick networking tips to get you started:

1. Write your elevator speech.
2. Use your connections for introductions and for follow-up.
3. Show interest in others.
4. Ask for advice, not a sale.
5. Build relationships by sharing information.
6. Maintain a two-way street, and keep the door open.
7. Be respectful at all times.
8. Participate in as many networking groups (trade associations, chambers, professional groups, etc.) as you can manage.
9. Remember: networking is a lifetime process. Keep it up.

In time, and by doing it right, business happens.

Source: Roger A. Shapiro is founder and president of Mitchell Rose, LLC, A Communications Consultancy. He is a speaker and the author of Write Right, 26 Tips to Improve Your Writing. Dramatically.