There are many things to remember when networking: A big smile and eye contact, your elevator (or escalator!) speech, breath mints…the list goes on. Well, how about 51 more things to keep in mind? Many sales development Web sites and blogs have featured this list, which was written by speaker/trainer/author Scott Ginsberg, and for good reason. Ginsberg lists 51 actions that can maximize networking opportunities.

Here are a few from the list:

#2. No matter where you go – the mall, church, out to dinner, the gym – make sure you’re carrying at least five of your business cards.

#11. Email articles of interest, links or other cool stuff OF VALUE (not spam) to people you’ve met.

#25. Every time you meet someone, write the letters HICH on their business card: how I can help. Then think of five ways to do so.

#47. Come to every networking event with three great questions ready to go. Be sure they begin with, “What’s the one thing?”, “What’s your favorite?”, and “What was the best part about?”.

To read the entire list, and even suggest some of your own ideas to Ginsberg, check out his Web site.

Trade shows can be an excellent way to get your agency’s name out to potential clients and build your brand. But, some agencies may be deterred from attending due to the fact that their services aren’t something that are easily “displayed.” Unlike a tactile product, creative, media buying, and brand consulting services aren’t easy to “show” at a trade show.

Marketing expert Ruth Stevens says that the key to finding success at these shows relies on an agency’s ability to find events that attract the right type of attendees. In an article with RainToday.com, she says “If only 15% of all attendees fit your profile, and they’re sprinkled throughout at a very low rate, you probably shouldn’t be marketing there.” However, a little footwork can lead you to the right trade shows.

A simple and effective way of discovering popular shows is asking current clients where they go. For more tips, including how to get the most from these shows while on a limited budget, click here.