Should you go to the opening of an envelope?...

The short answer is NO!

Target networking is key to growing your business, but I don't mean in a stalking sense... that kind of behaviour will get you arrested!

For a start: know your target market and find out where you need to be to talk to people that you want to do business with.  There will be specific meeting groups or events for your industry or the industry you want to be involved with.

Once you have been to one meeting you will be able to find out other avenues by just asking the people in the room for advice.  As I have said before... people are not scary and you will find them willing and able to help you, even if they do not want/need your services.

However, you can't just go once and expect everyone to remember you and what you do.   You will not become a millionaire from one visit!  Keep going, keep attending and most importantly follow up on your connections.

If you are lucky enough to find a possible lead at a networking event... follow it up immediately!  If you say you will call, then call.  Do this when the lead is fresh, send an email, make a call and arrange a one to one meeting.  

Networking is not socialising and your time is precious so don't waste it...