The Entrepreneur Insiders network is an online community where the most thoughtful and influential people in America's startup scene contribute answers to timely questions about entrepreneurship and careers. Today's answer to the question "What are some tips that promise success at networking events?" is written by Rick Crossland, founder of A Player Advantage.

Merriam-Webster's dictionary defines networking as "the cultivation of productive relationships for employment or business." This is an excellent definition that captures the essential mutual benefit that networking provides for both individuals and businesses. Businesses want to be networked with top talent, and conversely, top-performing employees want to be networked to the best opportunities. Businesses need excellent product and service providers, and networking provides an opportunity for these suppliers to meet these companies directly and efficiently to determine mutual value.

In today's world, networking is really conducted in three different ways: The first is with your personal network, or keeping in contact with your proverbial Rolodex. The second is by attending high-end events and networking face to face. The third is through social media.

Networking is one of the most effective business strategies--period. It's one of the fastest and most proven ways to gain new business with qualified companies that need your goods or services. On the other side of the coin, if your business is looking for high-quality suppliers or consultants, you'll want to network and find out who your peers recommend to you, or try to meet these providers directly at events or through social media. LinkedIn was created for professional networking, but other social sites, like Facebook and Twitter--in addition to industry blogs--can provide excellent ways to connect or reconnect with people and expand your network.

See also: 5 Surefire Ways to Bomb Your Next Networking Event

With all of these benefits, then, why do so many business professionals shy away from the amount of networking activity they should be doing? It takes work and effort to book, pay for, and attend a good business event. And while you're at an event, you need to actually "work" the room and meet people you don't know. Too many people fall into the trap of going to a business event just to eat and drink and talk with people they already know.

Likewise, it takes time and focus to connect with like-minded professionals and construct a conversation that provides value to them, especially when you're connecting through social media. You need to actually dedicate time to search for quality people to add to your network, and then develop a value proposition that resonates with them.