Early last week my friend and I attended a launch party for a new company in town; I must confess the party was very interesting because we met and talked to people whom we have only been seeing on TV or read about in the newspapers! This was a very good avenue for us to network especially for my friend who is a business person.Such events are very important for people who are in business because they get a chance to network and promote their products or services. Networking is one of the most valuable tools in business that any business man is encouraged to possess. You may have a great business idea but connections you make are what will keep your business going.Networking is all about meeting people so you can tell them about the product or service that you are offering. It is also important to remember that not everybody is going to be able to take up your business so you need to spend your time wisely with people whom you think are likely to buy your products or services. In fact over the past few years business networking has become a booming business. Some people have come up with beautiful ideas of breakfast clubs and networking events where people pay to go to such events just so that they network; many people have tasted the fruits of such networking events in running their businesses.Besides company launches; one needs to attend high end networking events. This includes charity balls, galas and golf tournaments. Some of these events tend to be expensive – but one has to tighten their belts and attend no matter what the cost; because these are the events where you will meet top company executives. Even in the most difficult circumstances always regard these events as an investment, and never an expense.The advantage of networking is that it allows one to meet other people who may use our products or services. Sometimes some of these events include mini expos where some companies come to sell their products; so one should also always be prepared to purchase the products that others at the meeting are promoting. This two-way street is important to keep in mind. While it may seem that someone is valuable to you, they will need to see you as value to them as well.Building your business involves meeting people otherwise it can be difficult to get clients in some businesses. It is through networking that relationships are developed with potential customers. Networking is precious tool to a growing business allowing new doors to open in every direction and therefore making your business grow.When in business never try to brush off some of these events as expensive or a waste of time; you never know, the effort can be worth the while.