Success in business is tied to your ability to create and build relationships. With limited marketing budgets, networking is a must-have business builder for small companies, freelancers and consultants.

This week celebrate the key role that networking plays in the development and success of businesses across the world with International Networking Week.  BNI, a large business referral networking company runs the event every year. With all types of global events around the world, you have the chance to connect with others in the business community.

Poor work processes can have a bad effect on efficiency, productivity and profits. As a business owner, you have a daily, overflowing arrival of information from e-mails to an ever-building pile of paperwork. Can organization aid your business? According to a National Association of Professional Organizers survey, over 28% of workers feel organization of their work space could save up to an hour a day.

The biggest time saver can be taking control of your email. Don't fall into the trap of reading emails and thinking I'll respond later. Later never arrives and soon your inbox is full of important and unimportant mail. Scott Allen, Co-Author of "The Virtual Handshake" recommends "Most people configure their email reader to interrupt them every time an email comes in. This means you are interrupted throughout the day. Instead, we suggest keep your email reader closed most of the day. Only check email once a day."

Last night aired the 20th anniversary of The Simpsons, a mile stone in the show's existence. Besides the entertainment value of the show, Homer and friends offer valuable business insight. My favorite "business" episode is the Flaming Homer. In this show, Homer reveals his cocktail recipe to Moe. Moe steals the idea calling it the Flaming Moe and business booms.

Every good business has a Flaming Homer. A special product or method of achieving great results, a Coca-Cola-like formula. To succeed in business; sharing ideas, and getting feedback is necessary. But don't reveal your secrets to a competitor. When disclosing sensitive information, use a non-compete agreement.

The Simpsons provides many business lessons for any entrepreneur. Here are 5 good and bad business lessons for your enjoyment and education. Woo-Hoo! 5 Business Lessons From The Simpsons

With the end of a crazy year for millions of economic "refugees", it makes sense to start the year fresh and re-visit your assumptions, goals and business plans. A business plan is useful if it's updated and not a forgotten document but a living document.  Your business plan will help you look at what worked in the past year, what is outdated, and areas for improvement. Take a look from outside your business with a fresh perspective. What would you do differently if you were to start your business over again? Use the SMART process of business goal setting to make 2010 a memorable year.