You have probably seen that Verizon commercial, where the guy walks around with thousands of other people, who represent the "network" that you will be a part of when you become a Verizon customer. That commercial provides a fitting metaphor for the importance of networking in business. Just imagine that your business was like the guy in the commercial, with thousands of people and other companies right there to help you every step of the way. You would have no choice but to succeed!

Unfortunately, it is not that easy in the real business world. Having a large and effective network can do wonders for your business success. But developing a large and effective network can be difficult and time consuming.

Here are some tips to expedite the network building process a bit:

Express yourself

Allocate part of your advertising budget to expanding your business network. Your network should include not only customers, but business contacts as well. Just as you focus on promoting your business to customers when you advertise, focus on promoting yourself to other business, as well.

One good way to do this, which may surprise you, is through flyers. Flyers are popular advertising items, but they also can benefit your networking efforts. Design a flyer printing that expresses your company’s ability to benefit a customer or business for the long term, rather than just trying to get them into your store one time. Make your flyer attractive, with lots of color, to fully maximize its effects.

Be a kid again

Virtually every teenager in the world, it seems, has an account on MySpace or Facebook, or both. The fact is, these social networking sites are becoming immensely popular for adults and businesses, also. In fact, if your business does not have a MySpace page or a Facebook profile, you are only hurting yourself. Hop on the bandwagon and start up some social networking profiles. It is remarkably easy to do, although you should take the time to make sure they look good and include plenty of info. Nobody likes to look at a MySpace profile that is bland and has no content. Include your business name and logo, and information about what your business does. Put special dates on there, for sales or events. Post bulletins announcing any events you have planned, or even just reminding your friends that you exist. Make as many friends as you can, and keep expanding your network. Also be sure to make friends with other business profiles that can help you expand.

Remember that flyer printing I mentioned earlier? Make sure you put your MySpace or Facebook address on it.

Become a fan of shameless plugs

To succeed in business, you have to be willing to promote yourself, even if it feels uncomfortable. In order to build your business network, you have to talk to a lot of people, and sometimes you have to do a bit of convincing to make them want to associate with you.

You should not be afraid of this. Remember that your goal is to expand your business, not necessarily to make personal friends. Talk to as many people in your industry as you can, and contact them regularly. Even if they seem reluctant at first, you can usually wear them down by being persistent. Convince them that you can help them as much as they can help you, and you should be fine.