3 Places To Find Tremendous Offline Networking Opportunities

By: Michael | Published: May 18, 2010 | Filed under: About small businesses, Networking, Shared office space

Small business owners should realize how essential networking is to building relationships that can help them drastically improve their business.  That being said, small business owners should be working as hard as possible to do the most networking they can.  Let’s take a look at some networking opportunities that are available to small business owners.

Resource #1:  Meetup.com

Meetup.com is a website that enables you to connect with others based on your common interests. If you are not already searching for relevant networking events on Meetup.com, you are missing out  huge networking potential.  The number of meetups available on any topic is mind blowing. It makes it so easy to find local professionals to connect with.  Every member of each meetup has a profile page where you can describe what you do and who you are looking to connect with.  Since everyone attending the meetup is local, you should be able to make solid contacts.

Attending these meetups is a fantastic way to meet people who have similar interests, whether business related or personal.  This is a great way to start getting to know people in your industry, discuss and exchange ideas.  Attending meetups regularly can dramatically help you increase your contact base as well as gain exposure for your brand.

Some meetups are more organized than others. Check the reviews of a meeetup to see what prior attendees thought of the event.  Most meetups are free, while others cost a few dollars.  Regardless, it is up to you to determine if the time is being well spent.

Resource #2: Industry Trade Shows

Based on what industry you are in and where you are located, you may be able to do some fantastic networking at trade shows.  These shows will usually have educational sessions in addition to networking events.  Unlike meetups, trade shows tend to stretch over multiple days.  Trade shows will often cost a reasonable amount of money to attend.  While these are often stellar networking resources, the value of the event comes down to how active you participate.  If you choose to attend a show, make sure that you are doing the best you can to maximize your time.  Attend sessions that will provide quality, actionable information.  The rest of the time should be spent networking with colleagues in the industry.

Resource #3:  Shared Office Space

Shared office space is a very new and interesting approach to networking. An essential feature of a community office space is the daily interaction with other people who are working to build their own business.  You have the ability to meet people who have knowledge of all different facets of running a small business.  You may or may not attain new clients from your office, but the education opportunity makes it worth it.  Sunshine is just one of many providers who offer this type of solution.  Check what type of shared offices are available in your area.  Go on a tour of the location and check out the vibe of the space.  If you feel comfortable with it, go for it.

With each of the three networking opportunities above, the value of each will always depend on how well you are using your time.  Make sure to evaluate our post on Tuesday that covered 3 Crucial Networking Mistakes.