Highland Park, IL, September 9, 2009 - ATI Graphics, a full-service graphic design and Web development firm based in Highland Park, is one of the founding members of the Business Networker’s Expo and Social Media Fair, an inaugural event that provides a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and area companies to showcase their products and services.

The Expo will take place on October 23, 2009, from 10 am to 7 pm, at the Mission Hills Country Club in Northbrook. It will provide a full day of networking along with a variety of presentations. Speakers will offer tips and strategies for effective networking for small businesses in today’s challenging economy as well as the best ways to use social networking sites such as LinkedIn and Facebook to generate leads, undertake a job search or make a career change.

Advance online registration for the Expo is $20. Tickets are $30 at the door. Corporate photography and video services also will be offered on-site. A variety of affordable sponsorship opportunities, starting as low as $195 for the day, are available as well.

“Networking is hands down one of the best things you can do when it comes to generating new business during these difficult economic times,” says Larry Bloom, owner of ATI Graphics.  “Whether it’s in person or online, you need to get out there, talk up your business but also offer to help your fellow colleagues.  That’s what true networking is all about.”

According to Bloom, one of the biggest mistakes people make in networking is thinking that they have to make the hard sell from the minute they meet another person at a meeting or event. He says networking is really about building relationships and helping people make good connections. “It’s like putting out good business karma,” says Bloom. “It will come back to you.”

Bloom, an entrepreneur and Web designer who has owned his own business for more than 12 years, believes that having a Web site to promote your business is also not enough. “It’s great to have a Web site, but if it’s not working for you, what’s the point?”

So Bloom asks the question, What type of employee is your Web site? Does it sit on its butt all day costing you money or does it generate leads and help you succeed?  He has found the metaphor really resonates with other business owners who relate to the fact that their Web sites are not really more than online versions of their brochures.

“Like networking, a Web site is just one of the many tools in your toolbox. You need to make it work for you to generate new prospects,” Bloom says.

Bloom built the Expo Web site and is in charge of all promotional materials for the event which is intended to be held biannually with the hope of drawing in more and more area businesses, trades and sponsors. So far, the response has been extremely positive.

“Nearly all our sponsorship slots are filled and we only began advertising the event a few weeks ago. That tells me that people are really interested.”

For more information on the Business Networker’s Expo and Social Media Fair and to register online, visit www.biznetexpo.com.

ABOUT ATI GRAPHICS:

An Established Company - Since 1997, ATI Graphics has been providing professional creative services such as graphic design, website design and development, digital imaging, technical and consulting services to an ever-growing list of clients ranging from innovative start-up ventures to well-established companies.

Focus on the Client - With a sharp focus on superior customer service in an age in which many businesses consider such conscientiousness a premium, ATI boasts an impressive portfolio and a loyal client base.

For more information and quotes for services, call 312-909-4716 or visit www.atigraphics.com.