How to Start Building a Networking Group
- 1). Clarify your networking group's mission. Find a name for your group that succinctly defines its purpose. If you are looking to network with commercial graphic artists to find job leads, for instance, then name your group something like “Commercial Graphic Artists Networking Group.” Be as specific as possible. If you are forming a group for growing food at home, don't name your group “Green Thumbs Anonymous”; call it “Home Gardening Enthusiasts” instead. This will help to ensure that the attendees you attract are less divergent in their interests, which will increase the likelihood that your group will thrive.
- 2). Design activities that encourage fellowship. Plan events and programs that your members will find interesting and fun. For example, if you are running a networking group for Linux (a type of computer operating system) enthusiasts, you could plan a community event where experts in your group can help new people put Linux software on their home computers or laptops. This is attractive because it helps your group reach out to the community, and it gives members a sense of purpose by letting them show off what they know.
- 3). Find an appropriate meeting place. Visit coffee shops, restaurants, churches, or schools to see who is willing to let your group hold periodic gatherings. Some places will let you meet for free with the expectation that your group will buy their drinks or food. Other places will charge a fee, requiring you to provide funding from your own pocketbook or to charge fees to members. Another option is to provide an online meeting place, such as a forum or a chat room. You can also provide a mix of periodic meetings in real-life venues and an ever-present Internet-based gathering place. When you need to schedule an event and let others know about it, you can use informal forums, or formal websites such as SureToMeet, Meetup, or other online fee-based services that assist you in managing networking groups and event reservations.
- 4). Schedule your meetings. Set a date and time for your first and subsequent meetings. Plan networking group gatherings after work hours or on weekends. After your first few meetings, determine the interval between future meeting dates; members of some groups like to gather frequently, while others prefer meetings to be scheduled once a month.
- 5). Promote your group. Design fliers and place them at venues where people who share your interest are likely to gather. If you are starting a job hunting group, place notices at job hunting boards or local employment services offices. Social networking websites provide excellent opportunities for you to let the world know about your new networking group.
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