I'm obviously a huge advocate for Vegas Young Professionals, but that’s only because I’ve utilized VYP networking opportunities to meet great friends and get new business contacts. However, here's the kicker: It's not about VYP. It's about you.

Business networking is about meeting and getting to know people. Networking isn't how many business cards you can pass out (we've all seen these people!). It's about forming a really good relationship and building a rapport with just a few people at each networking event. I refer business to people I feel will do a good job for my referrals. If you're going to networking events with the primary goal of selling your services to the people there- you might be a bit disappointed. Networking is about getting to know the people you meet and earning their trust and friendship. I keep in touch regularly with friends I've met out networking—friends that will talk to others about me when they go to an event I can't make.

Let's face it, starting a business is hard. Getting clients is not an easy thing to do right now. When you start a business, usually the first thing you do it tell everyone you know (online and offline) about your new venture. But, then what? Then you get out and meet new people! Keep building those relationships and show more people that you're worthy of their business and their referrals. I call it being "A-visible" - Which is being Available and Visible so people can find you when they need a bit of help. Eventually, you'll start to gain their trust and be their "Go-to" person in your industry.

Networking is about the relationships you make wherever you are. VYP has the venues, speakers, atmosphere and people that allow those relationships to happen. You just need to get involved. Start building relationships now and you'll see your business grow and those relationships start to snowball.

How can VYP help you? We’re the avenue for you to get your name out there. Expect great venues, fun people, smiling faces and yes, lots of business contacts. Not to mention all of the great professional development programs we have to support your growth as a young professional. So, show up, socialize, make a great impression by getting to know people, and the business will come.