It takes a lot to succeed in business these days - financing, contacts, know-how. But it also takes some practical things, like follow-up. When you meet someone in a networking situation, don’t forget to follow up. And don’t wait too long - they’ll forget you, or you’ll forget why they were a good contact to begin with. Phone calls and notes in the mail are much better than e-mail. Most people are flooded with e-mail every day, but a phone call or notecard shows that you were willing to make a bigger effort.