Does networking feel like the adult version of a chore? Do you drag yourself to events, forcing smiles and accepting business cards you know you’ll never look at again? If so, it can seem like you’re the only person in the room feeling this way. Everyone else looks thrilled to be there, but the truth is, we all struggle in the fluorescent glare of event halls and conference rooms.
The good news is, these places aren’t your only options when it comes to networking. There are plenty of creative, exciting, and engaging ways to connect with other businesses. So, if you’re desperate to ditch the traditional and embrace the unconventional, the following options might be right up your alley.
1. Volunteer Together
Whether you meet at the best serviced office in Brisbane or via an online forum in San Francisco, one of the most rewarding ways to connect with other business owners is through volunteering. When you work together for a greater cause, you naturally develop a sense of camaraderie and shared purpose. Plus, it's a fantastic opportunity to bond outside the competitive constraints of the business world.
Consider partnering with a local charity that aligns with your values. Visit serviced offices, coworking spaces, and relevant online forums in your area to find business owners who are aligned with your cause. By showcasing your company's philanthropic side, you can attract like-minded people who may open doors to all sorts of opportunities.
2. Host or Industry-Specific Workshops
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Instead of just attending events, take the lead and host your own. By providing valuable information and insights, you'll establish yourself as an industry expert. Encourage attendees to network with each other during breaks and after the workshop. This creates an opportunity for you to connect with other business owners on a more personal level.
3. Join or Create a Business Book Club
Reading and discussing business books can spark insightful conversations and cultivate intellectual connections. You can join a local book club or start your own with like-minded professionals.
By sharing your thoughts and ideas with others, you can gain new perspectives and expand your knowledge. Additionally, book clubs provide a relaxed and informal setting for networking, helping you build genuine relationships with people who enjoy a shared interest.
4. Collaborate on Content
Create compelling content by teaming up with complementary businesses. This could involve co-hosting webinars, producing joint podcasts, or writing collaborative blog posts. Together, you can reach a wider audience and establish yourselves as authority figures in your industry. By combining your strengths and resources, you can also create higher quality content that resonates with your target market.
5. Leverage Online Communities
Participate in discussions, share valuable insights, and build relationships with people who share your interests online. By engaging in relevant discussions, you can demonstrate your expertise and build trust with potential customers and partners.
When participating in online communities, be authentic and genuine. Share your knowledge freely, and focus on helping others. The rewards won’t necessarily be instant, but they will flow with time.
6. Attend Industry-Related Events… With a Twist
Instead of focusing solely on pitching your business, focus on finding cool people. Ask thoughtful questions, listen actively, and place your focus on understanding them rather than promoting yourself. In a deliciously ironic twist, you’ll likely find that this makes you far more memorable to people than you ever were before. Either way, you’re sure to have a much more enjoyable time.
Embrace these and other unconventional approaches, and you'll turn networking from a chore into a treat you genuinely love.
Related: How to Leverage Social Capital to Drive Business Innovation
