Finding Online and Offline Business Networking Groups

Networking is one of the most effective strategies to both build and grow a business. Meeting the right people is one of the best ways to ensure your long term success. Besides that, networking helps you learn and grow personally too.

But finding business networking groups online or off can sometimes be a challenge. Here are some good ways to go about it.

1) Search online. This might seem like an obvious step, so maybe you’ve already done it. (But my list wouldn’t be complete without it.) Simply type your industry and the words “organization” or “association” into your search bar and see what comes up. Often, you’ll hit the jackpot with dozens of top level organizations to research.

2) Using the same technique, you can search for offline groups as well. Many online organizations offer local chapters. Additionally, you can search for your city or state along with your industry keywords or the keywords “business networking.”

For example, if you lived in Austin, Texas you might enter “Austin, Texas business networking.”

: Image via Wikipedia

Again, you’re likely to have many organizations show up in your search results. You can begin to narrow the search down based on pre-determined criteria or compare them to find a place to start. For example, one organization may be located in Austin and meet on Monday nights. While the other may be located thirty miles away and only meet every other month. You may prefer more frequent and closer meetings.

3) Look at business networking directories. Yes, there are directories for just about everything under the sun and there are business networking directories you can search through too. For example, the Chamber of Commerce has a directory of other Chambers you can join. http://www.chamberofcommerce.com/

4) Social media. Connect with other people in your industry and ask about networking groups they belong to or recommend. You can find great, like-minded people, this way.

Look Before You Leap

Finding organizations is the first step. The second step is actually joining and becoming a member. Before you join any networking group it’s important to make sure you’ve evaluated the important aspects of the organization.

How often do they meet? Does this time and frequency match your desires and/or needs?
What is their goal/vision? Does it match your goal or vision?
What responsibilities will you be required to take on?
Will you be asked to take on more than you can (or wish to) handle?
Do the members match your personality, target audience, or vision? (For example, some organizations are women only, young entrepreneurs only and so on.) Make sure you’re in a group that helps you meet your needs.
Will the group ultimately help you reach your goals?

Networking is a productive way to find new partners, opportunities, customers, and learning events. It helps you stay fresh and moving forward with your business.

Take your time researching groups and find the one or two that make the most sense for you. Then get active, get involved, and get networking!