The truth of it is, networking in business actually quite painless in reality. Ultimately all you need to do is go along to some networking events and begin talk to people.
Some networking groups help each other to generate new business for each other by passing on leads. That's the very heart of networking, but it can be hard work. Any method that gets new business in is good generally, and referrals from networking are great.
Start of slowly, you don't need to attend lots and lots of events. when you go to the first couple, other people will recommendother networking to go to that will suit you. The more you get to the right events the less time you will waste. Be care full what you pay for and commit too - year long subscriptions can be expensive and then not so fruitful if they are not your cup of tea.
The chances are you will attend because you have received literature about the event or been invited by someone you know through work, either a colleague or someone from another company. do some research about how the event is run and the type of people that come. some are formal and some are very relaxed and informal. It can be daunting if you end up at events where everyone has to stand up and do a talk!!
Don't be afraid to talk to people. That can be hard for some of us so just relax and ease yourself into it. Take a friend along with you. Remember, everyone is here for the same reason - networking in business. Try to meet lots of people and make conversations brief, if you cling to just a few people you could miss out.
Take a pen, notepad and plenty of business cards with you. Give out as many cards as you can, and when you get cards from others jot a note about them on the back so that you can build a database of people and what they do - and things like who their dog / children are so that you can seem to remember them if you meet again.
Most of all when networking in business - enjoy yourself. The more you ne joy it the more likely you will want to keep going!