Who me? In a women's group?
Yep.
This was an early networking group organized,
I think, by the San Jose Chamber of Commerce.
Guess why I attended?
Here's a clue:
Every month I'd join a luncheon or a mixer
and
meet lots of entrepreneurs and Admin Assist's.
These women planned their company's holiday
parties, open houses, and business banquets.
We chatted about many things, including how
I'd bring fun and
elegance to their next festivities.
Sure enough, before long
my band was included
in many
of their celebrations.
Yay!!
I'm ALWAYS looking to meet more people like this.
Are YOU one?
"Women In Business" was one of my first awkward
forays into
face-to-face networking. I
t gave me
lots of
practice
making small talk with friends.
It gave me a reliable stream of engagements for
the band and the confidence to keep networking.
Why am I telling you about my early networking?
Because I think you might like this strategy, too.
Perhaps you're already using it. Am I right?
In recent years, many newer groups have replaced
"Women In Business" in my networking schedule.
Today
I focus
my networking on groups
whose members
serve
Special Events, especially
weddings and parties.
Here's one of my favorite groups:
I've been active in
NACE (National
Association of Catering
and Events). Recently
several of my best colleagues in the
San Francisco
chapter announced plans for their
annual gala
.
This party is always sensational, and I wanted to join
the fun. To work with the best of the best.
I immediately offered to bring my trio to entertain
during the cocktail hour.
With many additional top
volunteers teaming up,
it
was a fabulous
evening
for everyone who attended.
Were you there?
I was glad to help, of course, and a number of
the evening's guests have since contacted me
to entertain at their own clients' events.
Are you noticing a pattern here? It's my favorite
tip about networking.
Here's that Tip I promised:
When you decide to network, join a few
groups of colleagues and potential clients.
Offer to HELP everyone, everywhere you can.
I've found the more you offer, the more you'll receive.
Now after collaborating all these years, my colleagues
know
that we create the perfect mood for celebrating.
Especially at weddings and parties. We always
customize special music to suit the occasion.
