The right steps after patenting the idea...

Having my little knowledge in business, I at least knew that I needed to file a patent application for my electronic gadget. I did so. Next, I had a prototype made... But now I have no idea what the best steps are to REALLY profit from the idea. Do I want to try to meet with the big companies now? Should I collect a fee from a large distributor over seas? Should I set up a product line over seas, and if so, who do I need to assemble as a team?
Raising capital is not a problem, but I have no idea where to put funds.
Please assist. Thank you,
Matt