If you want to remain at the top you need to progress, pushing your development, expanding your business networks and striving to stay one step ahead of the game. Your contact base may be extensive by now, but there’s always room for more. The larger your network, the more chance of business opportunities coming your way.

1. Get online – Business networking sites such as LinkedIn.com provide the perfect means of tracking down old colleagues or university contacts. Get in touch and stay in touch. You never know who might require your services and when.
2. Beyond the office – Set your mind to it and everything you do can be turned into a potential business opportunity – from a holiday to the gym.  Also consider the associations you can be a part of – not just work related, but social or community groups all offer extensive networking opportunities that can be invaluable.
3. Work at it – Networking is not just about making a quick sale. It is vital that you work hard at your business relationships, building trust and really taking to time to get to know your contacts. A Christmas card once a year isn’t going to land you that crucial 12-month contract you’ve been after. Stay in touch and look after your contacts, and you’ll find that your contacts look after you.