Image via Wikipedia

In life you never know who you’ll meet, and the same is true for business. Expect the unexpected, as they say, and this applies to connections you’ll make in the drive to make a profit. Even the most experienced entrepreneur is sometimes unprepared for business networking opportunities. The truth is, a business encounter may not be immediately evident at first meeting. Here are a few chances to promote your business that you might be missing.

The Gym

Nobody likes to be bothered while they are working out, but what about in the locker room. Many people strike up conversations there, even with strangers. If you happen to find out what the other person does for a living it might be an opening. Remember, you both have physical fitness in common, so the ice is already broken.

Waiting for the Train

Any time you travel you come in contact with people who are probably as busy as you are. This shared experience can deliver a great networking opportunity. Many a deal have been brokered with a neighbor on an airplane as well.

Waiting in Queues

Whether it is the bank or any other place waiting in a long line can be tedious. Strike up a conversation with another frustrated customer as it just might lead somewhere.

Believe it or not, a simple good morning can lead to a business opening if the conversation goes in the right direction. Networking is not just about cocktail and dinner parties and business expos. If you’re in business you need to learn to see opportunities where it seems like none exists.