Get Connected: Find Small Business Networking Events

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You’ll never know when a great networking opportunity will present itself unless you go for it.

Simply put, networking can be the key to your small business success. It brings several benefits to your business; from getting resources, increasing your visibility in the industry, to forming strategic partnerships. But networking in unrewarding places can be a waste of time.

Since you are the face of your business, you need to be productive and efficient in every networking event that you attend. By networking effectively, you can get to meet suppliers or investors even when attending sporting events or fundraising activities.

But it can be hard if you don’t know where to go and what to look for.

Where can you network? What are the best places to find small business networking events? Where can you meet other people in your industry?

Give yourself a head start and look at these places where in-person networking opportunities exist:

Chamber of Commerce

Your local Chamber of Commerce is one of the first places you should consider. Most local chambers host networking events, classes and talks. It’s a great place where you can meet business-owners and people in your community. Check upcoming events in your local Chamber of Commerce and get involved! You can participate, attend, or be a sponsor in any of those events.

Trade Shows and Exhibits

Trade shows are the easiest and most obvious place to meet people in your industry. Visit different booths and meet the people behind those businesses. Explore, talk and network. Exchange business cards or contact information, and be sure to follow-up to keep in touch.

Classes

Attending short classes or certificate courses is a good way to break the ice with everyone else. You can network with these people, share resources and ideas. Even the class lecturer or professor is often times a good person to network with.

Alumni Events

Aside from catching up with your fellow alumni, several college alumni events can be a way to establish even more connections. You can be part of your alumni sports games, alumni databases, and alumni interest groups. If you can give talks during those alumni gathering, you’re making yourself more visible.

Online Networking Sites

Several websites like Meetup and Eventbrite allow you to find information and search events in your area.

1. Meetup: This site has a dedicated small business Meetup group. It is also known for a wide range of business-oriented groups, and even social groups such as mountain climbing, hiking or biking.

2. Eventbrite: This site is known as a ticket-purchasing portal. It also lists local business events for small business owners. Use the “Find Events” tab to access and search for events near you.

Online Forums

These are places where you can discuss topics of interest and ask questions. By being active on a forum, you’ll get to gain recognition from other people who are also forum regulars. This, in turn, will open doors for you to get connected with these people personally.

Other Ways to Find Small Business Networking Events 

Ask likeminded business people! When you get to attend networking events and connect with people, some are more likely to share where they make their contacts, so be sure to ask. Looking at ads around your city, even at local restaurants, also helps. You can also subscribe to newsletters or join online groups to be regularly updated.

And don’t forget that social media sites such as Facebook, Google Plus and LinkedIn are essential places that you can use effectively to network and stay up-to-date with the community and your market.

Looking for ways on how to network effectively in every small business networking event? Pamela Finnesand, The Business Maximizer, can assist you. Schedule your complimentary Business Breakthrough Strategy Session today!