In a word, everywhere.

And anytime.

And especially around the holidays.

Remember, every time you meet someone in a business context, it is an opportunity for networking.  You could be in line today at the grocery store buying your spiral ham and have a conversation with somebody about what you do for a living.  Or maybe you’re going to a holiday party at your neighbors’ house and can speak with a celebrant about your visionary business idea over a glass of egg nog.

Where else can you network, though?  In today’s interconnected (and Internet-connected) business world, many formal avenues exist for people and companies to network.

• Chamber of Commerce: Every town, city, county and region of the country has a Chamber of Commerce, devoted to growing business and industry of its members and the local economy.  For a nominal annual fee, you will have access to the Chamber’s member directory, regular events (mixers, galas, networking breakfasts, guest speakers, etc.) and workshops.  Few better opportunities exist for the professional looking to grow his business.
• Alumni Groups: Most of you probably went to school somewhere.  Whether it’s high school, college, graduate school or your 3rd Grade class with Ms. Jackson, many of you already have access to a network of people that you already know and who already know you.  The Internet has provided a valuable platform from which people can come together because of a common bond, … both online and in real life
• Professional Associations: If you’re engineer, there’s a professional engineering association in your area.  If you’re a Hispanic MBA or an optometrist, there’s a professional group for that too.  If you’re a young professional in the greater Savannah area, there’s a group for that too.  Look in your own professional “backyard” for the group that fits your background and marketable skill sets.
• Networking Groups: What better venue for networking than a group formed specifically for the purpose of bringing like-minded professional together.  These groups — some for free, some for a monthly or annual fee — are perfect for the aspiring businessman or entrepreneur to meet kindred souls who are looking to grow and help others grow.

We’re just scratching the surface here, though.  Remember, networking opportunities happen every day.  It’s happening right now.  You’re reading an article from a business professional about networking.  You can reach the author here.  There’s an opportunity right there.  Did you see it?

These type of impromptu networking opportunites don’t just occur at the holidays, but are available every day, 24/7/365.  In line at the bank, waiting to talk to the mechanic, in the parking lot at Best Buy, … you just have to be looking for them and be ready to act when the time is right. 

Tomorrow’s post will explore the ”how” part of networking, perhaps the most important part.  After all, you can’t just show up at a alumni mixer or a networking event and business to fall from the sky like manna from heaven.  There’s actually an art to it, …

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