Prompt Proofing Blog: Networking for Entrepreneurs 101 - Types of Networking Events
'Mingling' is a wonderful word - almost like the phrase 'smart casual' - in that no one really knows what it means but that's exactly the point. A vague description of an event means that it can essentially be what the attendees make it.

VANCOUVER, BC, April 01, 2011 /24-7PressRelease/ -- Any networking group can be helmed by a creative individual who may come up with any number of events to offer his or her group's members. Therefore, this list is by no means comprehensive. However, it will provide an overview to a few of the most common types of networking events entrepreneurs are likely to encounter, and how to tackle each one to get the best results for your business.
1. 'Mingling' events

'Mingling' is a wonderful word - almost like the phrase 'smart casual' - in that no one really knows what it means but that's exactly the point. A vague description of an event means that it can essentially be what the attendees make it. Often at 'mingling' events there will be finger foods and drinks and just a room full of entrepreneurs who are there to meet fellow business people.

This can be one of the most intimidating events to attend for newcomers to the networking world but it can also be one of the most worthwhile, as there is one purpose in mind: making contacts. Even if these contacts don't seem likely to produce direct sales for you, the more people you know the better. After all, it's one more person who knows about your business! They may not need it but someone just might say to them, a few months later, "I really need a cake for my daughter's wedding and I have no idea where to begin." Then a switch may flick and the person can recall your name or your business card or at least something about your conversation, and you have a referral.

So how to tackle a 'mingling' event? Enter the room, get your name tag and a drink (keep one hand free for shaking hands, handing business cards etc; unless you are starving try to avoid the food, mingling is difficult with your mouth full), and scan the room. If you see someone awkwardly standing on their own or someone who came in at the same time as you, talk to them and strike up a conversation. This will ease you into the event and get you more comfortable. If everyone is busy, just slowly approach a group of three or more people and start listening to what is being said. At some point you can join in with a comment or question to get involved, but most likely the others in the group will acknowledge you before that and at least one person will ask your name and what you do in order to help include you in the conversation. Most people who attend these events are friendly and feel exactly the same way you do, so they are happy to include others.
2. Speaking events

These are great for their educational value. And if they are well planned, they can also provide excellent networking opportunities. Often groups will organize an event which features a keynote speaker - a successful business owner or small-business expert, for example - who will give a short, educational presentation often followed by a Q&A session. Obviously the advice and information you can gain from the person's presentation can be invaluable, but these events are often begun or finished with a mingling session as well so you are able to 'kill two birds with one stone', if you like, and get some networking in as well as an informative talk.

This is an especially good type of event to try for your first venture into networking, as the mingling time is often not that long so if you are very uncomfortable it is over quite quickly and the speech should still make attending worth your while. You are also able to get an idea of what a mingling event might be like by observing the mix and mingle time, which can ease your anxiety when you decide to attend your first mingling event.
3. Breakfasts or lunches

These often involve mingling and a speaker as well but they are based around a seated meal and tend to be smaller in size. This is a nice way to really get to know people, as they are often held on a regular basis with many repeat attendees. Often entrepreneurs work on their own so this can really help to give the sense of community that many business owners miss when they no longer have colleagues.

There is often a small fee involved with this type of event to cover the rental of the space or the cost of food but it is often well worth it. Some are very structured and request that attendees stand up and give a short presentation on their business and hand out marketing literature. This may sound daunting but it is something you can prepare beforehand and is a surefire way to have everyone present learn about your business.

There are a multitude of other events that are put on for the purpose of networking and they all have their advantages. Networking can always be slightly nerve-wracking if you're not a naturally outgoing, sales-oriented person, but it's something that can only benefit entrepreneurs so it is worth a go. Just take a deep breath and have your business cards at the ready. Making that connection is essential, so after talking with someone make sure to ask if you may give them your card (take theirs if offered) and connect with them on LinkedIn or follow up with them by email.

Happy networking!

Check back next Friday for another Prompt Proofing blog post!

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