Remember the little things....

In the never-ending quest to build valued business relationships, it's a given that a certain protocol should be followed. Having your business cards ready, attending the "right" functions and arriving armed with riveting conversation to make that all-important first impression are all a part of that mix. But actually, it's lasting impressions that count. And often, simple gestures--the little things--are the glue that cements relationships.

"Little things" come in the form of cards, flowers, helpful newspaper clips--any item that makes a person remember you fondly after your encounter. These shouldn't be bribes, mind you, but simple overtures that can win you new alliances, not to mention a few brownie points.

"It's a nice way to thank someone for their time," says Barrie Switzen, a New York City-based special events marketing consultant who considers sending follow-up notes to be as crucial as her networking encounters themselves. "Also, you're putting your name in front of the person again as a reminder of your conversation and service," Switzen adds.

Taking the time to send personal "thank you" or "remember me?" tokens not only labels you as thoughtful and conscientious, it can also help establish new friendships and business contacts. Just ask Ramona Candy.

During a three-month teaching stint in Aruba years ago, Candy made a number of friends who lived in other exotic places. "Because I love to write letters, I made a point of initiating and maintaining correspondence with those people throughout the years," recalls the Cosmopolitan magazine executive assistant. "Now, they're my friends and I've got places to visit all over the world where I'm received like family," she says. Candy has also been privy to lucrative travel discounts extended to her by friends she's cultivated in the industry.

Be mindful that gender and different cultures may dictate modifications in your approach, though. With men approaching women (or vice versa) in this manner, "there's always a risk that the person might read more into your gesture than was intended," warns Antoinette Broussard, a San Francisco-based protocol and etiquette consultant.

As the business world shrinks, and the possibility of your attending a cocktail party in London, Tokyo or Senegal increases, Broussard issues another warning. Other cultures view business card exchanges, social invitations and gifts differently than Americans do, so some sensitivity training might not hurt. It's easier than you think to get stuck with the stereotypical "ugly American" label. To guide you on how to avoid it, books and seminars that educate professionals on the rites and mores of other cultures abound. Call the New York-based American Management Association at 800-225-3215 for leads.

In trying to make a lasting impression, the more creative or unique you are, the better. Candy's personally designed stationery affords her a distinctive touch. And Switzen has been known to send memorable notes on the back of recycled photographs. No matter the method, it's essentially the thought that counts. Be sure you remember to make some of these little things a permanent staple on your networking "to do" list.