Building relationships helps business. The more people who are aware of your expertise and products and services, the more business that may be indirectly sent your way through informal -- or formal -- recommendations.

Become a member of your industry's professional organization(s).

Build your professional network through LinkedIn and industry networking sites. Follow key industry movers and shakers -- and cultivate your own follower's -- using Twitter.

Contribute to industry blogs -- providing valuable information in response to a posting and/or guest-writing blog entries.

Use other social-networking and bookmarking sites to showcase your expertise and build relationships.