The ability to network is a crucial skill that every entrepreneur and business development professional must possess. What better way is there to meet the clients and contacts necessary to grow your business?

The trick with networking is to be proactive. This means taking control of a situation, instead of merely reacting to it. Introducing yourself to people you see as beneficial in all areas of your business will set you up with resources, many times before they are needed. Networking also requires going beyond your comfort zone and challenging yourself.

Try these tips:

• Set a goal to meet five (or more) new people at each event. Whenever you attend a group function, whether it's a party, mixer or industry luncheon, make a point of heading straight for people you don't know. Greet newcomers. They will love you for it! If you don't make this goal a habit, you'll naturally gravitate toward the same old acquaintances.
• Try one or two new groups per month. You can attend almost any organizations' meetings a few times before you must join. This is another way to stretch yourself to make a new set of contacts.
• Carry your business cards everywhere. You never know when you might meet a key contact, and if you don't have a card to give them, you lose. Take your cards to the gym, parties, the grocery store, even when you're walking the dog.
• Don't make a beeline for your seat. Take advantage of networking time before you have to sit down. Once the meeting starts, you won't be able to mingle.
• Don't sit by people you know. Mealtime, and moments before a key speaker begins their presentation are prime times for meeting new people. You may be in that seat for hours, so don't limit your opportunities by sitting with friends. Remember, you're spending precious money to attend this event. Make it a worthwhile experience.
• Get active. People remember, and do business with, leaders. Don't just warm a chair. Join a committee or become a board member. If you don't have time to become heavily involved, volunteer to help with hospitality at the door or with check in. This gives you a great opportunity to meet others, become involved in the inner workings of the group, and will provide you with more visibility.
• Be friendly and approachable. Make people feel welcome. Find out what brought them there and see if there is any way you can help them. Introduce those you know to your new acquaintances. Offer business advice and give referrals. What goes around comes around. If you make the effort to help others, you'll find people helping you.
• Set a goal for what you expect from each meeting. Your goals can vary from meeting to meeting. Examples include: learning about the speaker's topic, looking for new prospects, discovering industry trends or connecting with peers. If you work from home, you may find your purpose is simply to get out and talk to people face to face.
• Be willing to give to receive. Networking is a two-way street. Don't expect new contacts to shower you with referrals and business unless you're equally as generous.
• Follow up with contacts. Stay in touch and share information that might benefit them.

By following these simple guidelines and putting yourself out there, networking will be a fun and profitable experience.