Networking has always been important to business professionals. However, as we have seen in this tough economy, it has become an indispensable skill. It seems as though most people don't think about the value of networking until they are in a job search mode. Networking will build your reputation, raise your visibility and profile, and will provide hidden job opportunities.

Networking means developing a broad list of contacts with people you've met through various social and business functions, and using them for mutual interest or support. When you're looking for a job you can benefit greatly from having an extensive network. Statistics have consistently shown that at least 65% of all jobs are found through networking. People may introduce you to others to help expand your network, provide job leads, or offer advice and information about a company or industry. You can also grow a new business and customer base, develop relationships with individuals that offer services or products that you don't, or simply learn something new.

A good starting point in developing your network is with family, friends and within your community. Talk to former bosses, co-workers, and individuals you have met in your industry at professional organizations, conferences, and trade shows.

Familiarize yourself and use the social and business networking sites such as LinkedIn, Twitter, Facebook, and blogs. Join industry related "Groups" on LinkedIn to increase your visibility, network, find resources and share information with other like-minded individuals in the "Discussion Tabs".

Explore organizations dedicated to business networking like chambers of commerce, and networking/social clubs that meet your professional and social interests. Check out the following websites for ideas and calendars of professional and networking events:

• Aggregate networking event website - networkinchicago.com.
• Chicago business networking events site - networkingmonkey.com.
• Site for groups of people with shared interests and identifies events by zip code - meetup.com.
• Calendar of events for different organizations/professions-calendars - techvenue.com/cgi-bin/techvenue.pl?CalendarName=USMidwest.
• Number one business events calendar in the world - garysguide.org/.

Write articles, give seminars, webinars and speeches. These are great ways to become involved and get your name out. Also, volunteer for committees that might launch into something for you.

The key to networking success is to regularly tend and water your networking garden. Building a strong network takes time and will provide you with better market penetration than you could never dream of on your own.

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