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Running a small business requires a person with stamina, perseverance, tenacity - and someone who wants to spend all of their time working - working - working.

Small business owners are risk takers and are people who like the thrills of using their business skills. These same persons reap many, many rewards for all of their risks, hard work and never taking no for an answer. All of this is leading up to some of the best networking basics used in small business - all of which require even more time and and a reservoir of energy.

One of the best networking tools in the box is to join your local chamber of commerce and then participate in the networking events sponsored by the chamber. Go to the social events, the seminars, the breakfasts or any of the multitude of events sponsored by most local chambers. Where can a small business owner find the time to do this? Remember, you are person with stamina and perseverance - you'll find the time.

Next, volunteer with a local non-profit that is working to solve a community problem that is near and dear to your heart. That's right - I'm suggesting you volunteer your time (I know how little of you have left) and loan your entrepreneurial talents to a local social organization. You will meet up with some of the biggest and most successful community leaders and local business and industry movers and shakers. Once again - you have to find the time - it will pay off.

Contact your local media and let them know you are available for questions and interviews for your industry. You are promoting yourself as an expert in your field - show everyone just how good you are by offering your knowledge to local newspaper and television features. Just make sure they spell and pronounce your name and your company name right!

All businesses these days have to think outside of their geographic boundaries. The best way to do this is via the Internet. Join Internet discussion groups, put up a website and get your buzz words on the search engines, take the time to post on blogs related to your business or industry and if you really want to expand your horizons - develop and publish an e-mail newsletter. You will quickly develop a networking e-mail list beyond your wildest expectations.

There are so many ways to network these days - this short list will get you started and give you immediate benefits.

Learn more about this author, Patricia Faulhaber.
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