But as an entrepreneur I've decided to take this to another level with 13 classes of...business networker. Don't get me wrong - I've met some wonderful people and excellent practitioners in my time, but some of these may ring true with you.

One of the biggest mistakes that people make when they start is a business is that they expect customers to come flocking instantly. They believe in their product or service so much that they expect am influx of customers to come running as soon as their doors open.

If someone offers you a referral in 2013, make sure you follow up. If it's not an introduction you want, communicate that clearly but politely. Even offer to pass it onto someone more appropriate. If it is, make both yourself and your champion look good by responding in good time.

With forecasts of the UK's economic prospects for 2012 remaining gloomy, the chances are that many more people will be seeking new employment over the course of this year. With more well-qualified people seeking fewer jobs, strong networks will become ever-more relevant, as will a proactive approach.

Networks not only help you meet people who may have intel on your next job opportunity, they are also a great forum for sharing ideas, seeking advice, or just feeling supported by people who have been in the same situation as you. Whatever stage you are in your career, there are benefits to be had by promoting yourself through networking.

The first question most commonly asked when meeting people at networking events is, "what do you do?" Unfortunately this is the networking equivalent of 'do you come here often?'

I'm looking forward to visiting Vietnam in a couple of weeks to speak at two events about networking and why it is so important. In preparation for my...