"I am so tired of going to busi... by Eugene Byers

"I am so tired of going to business meetings that turn into social event - they are a waste of time".

Attending a networking event or business meeting is only as valuable as you make it. Many of us tire of attending events where we feel it turns into a social event - and we wonder at the value we receive by attending. Sure we may get a meal, or free drink or snacks - but let's be realistic - it takes time out of our schedules and costs money too.

On the flip side, if you sit all day in your office hoping to make the right connections - you may grow roots instead of your business. And so with that in mind, many of us dress up, get out and meet new people, old friends and make the connections that may help us or others. There are a few things you can do to make sure that your networking is effective.

Go with a purpose

If you go with a specific purpose in mind you are less likely to wander aimlessly about the room meeting no one in particular. Before you go to the meeting, see if you can look on a website or find information about the theme of the meeting, who will be there, and how that might relate to you. Write down one connection or person