What are the best ways to network?

Rachel - posted on 09/15/2012

I joined a few networking groups and have found meetup to be helpful - the founding moms group good. I also recently went to a grubwithus dinner. You can either join a group or start one. You purchase the lunch/dinner online and then show up to eat w/ like-minded moms or businesses. I find this nice b/c our schedules are so unpredictable, I can check on Monday and go at the last minute. It is an informal way to have a meal and meet new people. I haven't found direct sales correlation from these but I have learned new idea's and resources to help my business go in the direction - how-to knowledge.

Miste - posted on 04/15/2011

I think one of the best ways to network is utilizing one's local Chamber of Commerce. Chambers members support one another and there are alot of benefits in chamber membership. One does not always have to be a member and can still go to events that are open to the public. Chambers tend to use this to get your business as well and by talking to others members right there you can evaluate membership yourself. Another thing is that there are Hispanic, American Indian, African American and Asian Chambers as well and one does not have to be the ethnicity to be a member. Another networking avenue I am still investigating and have heard can be very impactful and that is www.LinkedIn.com

Sharon - posted on 04/12/2011

Hi Ladies,



Locally is really the tried and true way and still may be the best. If you can't because of time restraints with other commitments, you can really find others online as well. Online networking does take longer to really build trust and a good repore with someone. It can be done. I know business partners who have never really spent much time together in person, most of their business and working exchanges have been online.



Have a great day!



Sincerely,



Networking Mom

http://networkingwahm.com

Sarah - posted on 12/08/2010

Thanks...I use a group called MyLocal City Networks, their new in the houston area, but have been doing groups in the Austin area. I have had great results with them so far.

Sharon - posted on 12/02/2010

Hi,



I you have the time in person is great. MeetUp has many local groups in your area listed. I don't want to plug any of them in particular. Coffee is in the name of some of them. Coctails in the name of another. Chics in the name of some others. Business is the name of some others.



Use Google to find them, there are so many to pick from these days. Many are national franchise types of groups, with a yearly membership fees. Others are just copies of the national groups.



Networking Mom

http://networkingwahm.com

Sharon - posted on 12/02/2010

Hi,



It really depends on the business you have and what you like to do. Some networking groups only allow one business type per chapter. Your own business and skill set is what really determines the best way for you to network. If you don't like getting up and talking in front of a group, some of the networking groups are not for you. You may be happier taking a class or taking up a hobby to network with like minded people while networking. I was a marketer for many years and now have a networking website.



Networking Mom

http://networkingwahm.com

Sarah - posted on 10/25/2010

I haven't really found any moms doing what I do. However, one why that I have found to network and expand my business is just walking around at health fairs, career fairs, going to local networking groups in the area. In addition, I also team up with so of the ladies in my office we will come up with ideas on how to expand our business with networking. One has to think outside the box in order to get their business growing and expanding

Krissi - posted on 07/13/2010

Going to networking groups in your area and asking for referrals has been the best method for our team.

Krissi
Green mom of 3