From bCentral: 

Small firms 'overlooking' networking benefits

Thu, 12 Oct 2006 16:21:12 GMT

Many of Britain's small businesses could be losing out to competitors because they are not making enough of networking opportunities.

Many of Britain's small businesses could be losing out to competitors because they are not making enough of networking opportunities.

The latest research report from Lloyds TSB Business and the SERTeam at the Open University found that two fifths of small firms do not believe that networking can boost their businesses' chance of growth and success.

It also shows that one in ten small firms say they do not devote any time to networking, while 42 per cent admit they only get involved a few times a year.
Lloyds TSB believes that those businesses that do become adept at networking are likely to gain significant benefits.

It reveals how almost three quarters of firms have won new customers over the past year as a direct result of marketing, while two fifths have found new suppliers.

more at  Small Business News : Small firms 'overlooking' networking benefits