Networking is likely the cheapest and easiest way to generate leads and thereby grow your business. In a small or medium-sized business or a professional partnership there should never be a need for cold calling. Consider how many hundreds of people you know:

• existing clients
• other professional contacts
• friends
• family
• people at the sports or social club
• committee members you may work with.

These groups are the common fuel that people in network marketing use to generate leads and propel their businesses. 

When launching and operating businesses, you should consider all avenues of networking as a viable means of generating new clients or partners. This could simply mean joining the local Board of Trade or Chamber of Commerce, or any number of regional or national associations or organizations that exist to serve their members. 

There are commercial entities that are developing rapidly and enjoying success across North America, such as BNI (www.bni.com), as well numerous online sources like LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com) that help you grow a like-minded group of friends and associates.

As well, there are community-based clubs like the Rotarians and Lions who meet regularly, as well as Masonic lodges around the world to consider.And, from time to time politicians hold dinners and luncheons in an effort to meet local business leaders.