The first time I attended a networking event for women, I didn’t know what to expect. I had recently then ventured into the world of entrepreneurship, and was looking for ways to promote my business and sell products. I envisioned networking groups as being a good marketing tool for my business which catered to women. And by tapping into this environment, I would ultimately gain some clients.
At my first group networking event, I walked in and thought we were expected to exchange cards and pitch our businesses. But instead, I sat at a round table with other female entrepreneurs and waited for a presentation. Of course, while waiting, I introduced myself to the “comrades” and began asking what they did for living. You know, the typical cliche question we often ask when meeting someone for the first time.
Soon after we finished the round table introduction, the facilitator walked on stage and kick started the presentation. She announced the names and titles of speakers who were pleased to share their business success stories with the audience. I was impressed with the wealth of knowledge, experiences and inspiring stories the speakers presented. These intimate women’s group networking events reminded me of business conferences I attended while serving the corporate world. They were packed with valuable information and ideas to implement in business, and even in personal life.
This sort of empowerment exists with many business and professional networking groups for women. And, as time passed, I learned that a women’s networking group isn’t specifically a marketing or a sales tool. There are multiple reasons why women should join networking groups. The reasons to join a networking group will mainly depend on your objectives. Bear in mind, however, that acquiring new clients isn’t necessarily the only reason you should aim for.
Define your goal for joining networking groups
In the past few years, I have attended numerous women’s networking events. I realized there are two important aspects to consider when joining networking groups:
The first one is relevance and connection with the group’s vision and members. You want to walk into a room where you anticipate authenticity and empowerment. This feeling is usually a reflection of a solid leadership vision and a supportive spirit that is present in the group. Make sure you feel a sense of belonging and relevance with members, leaders and attendees. Now this could take couple of more visits before making a decision to join the group, so don’t feel shy to ask for permission to attend another event before making a decision. After all, you want to make sure you invest your time and money in relevant networking groups.
The second aspect is alignment with business and personal goals. Before joining a networking group, ask yourself why you want to join this group. Write down your goal (or goals) and find out how a networking group can help you achieve them. You can then check their website, meet with group leaders and ask members to give you a clear explanation of what the group stands for.
Let’s say you are a personal fitness trainer and your goals are to stay up-to-date with the latest fitness trends. In this case, you should join fitness network groups that focus on bringing industry experts as speakers, and offer relevant courses in this field. However, if your goal is to expand your business and acquire female clients, then you may consider women entrepreneur or executive networking groups. In this case, you get to connect with your target group, identify their needs, build relationships with members and eventually gain new business.
Benefits of joining networking groups for women
Few months ago, I joined FemCityⓇ, a recognized North American networking group for female entrepreneurs. To me, FemCityⓇ feels authentic, and it offers a diversified platform for female entrepreneurs. We have intimate chapter meetings, where we discuss our progress, ask questions, exchange advice and business opportunities. And we stay connected online via Facebook groups so I never miss an update or valuable info from my FemCityⓇ tribe. This resonates well with me because I strongly believe in building transparent relationships with other women, and in contributing towards the growth of a community.
If you want to join networking groups for women, you will realize the incredible growth benefits they offer you as a business owner, a professional or even a stay at home mom. I believe we are somehow fortunate to live at a time where women are capable of gaining new skills, building dreams, and supporting each other. And these are opportunities we should capitalize on regardless of our status in life.
Exchange ideas and knowledge
A credible women’s networking group will usually source out the latest business and career trends to share with members. Leaders are constantly seeking inspiring and successful business owners who are willing to inform and educate group members. The group events are packed with great speakers, and presentations to help members grow and achieve business and personal success. As well, some groups like FemCityⓇ, offer online courses, and a resource library for members containing a large number of relevant and trending topics. Having access to online courses and digital information is extremely convenient for me because I can just log on and follow a course at my free time.
Discuss matters affecting women
Whenever a group of supportive women get together, whether at a networking event or a personal gathering, they always discuss matters affecting them. It’s very important for us to have these candid discussions, because we owe it to ourselves to realize that these issues are real and universal. Such conversations can help resolve a personal or a group issue. Topics like women’s health, rights and equality are addressed with members who offer guidance and recommendations to solve them. Knowing that I can be in a company of women who listen and support the rights of other women is a rewarding and affirming experience.
Stimulate creativity
Joining a women’s networking group is an inspiring experience since it enables me to appreciate the unique ideas and opportunities created by other women. As well, creativity is usually achieved with the support and feedback of groups rather than one individual. For example, you may have a logo idea but don’t know if it will resonate with your audience. Your network group members will be thrilled to offer their thoughts and suggestions when you present it to them. Plus, there are multiple articles and theories proving the impact of groups on stimulating creativity.
Collaboration
Joining a women’s networking group helped me develop new contacts and business referrals. There’s a sense of comradery between group members since they usually share similar experiences and goals. Members meet and discuss business challenges which can open up work for one another. For example, a group member could have a big project and needs support in specific areas. The first thing she will do is reach out to the group members for help, and that is a great example of a collaboration and business exchange.
Motivation
We all need motivation when things are not going the way we want them to. Attending a networking event helps boost our energy and motivation levels. It allows us to gain renewed confidence and build new meaningful relationships with other women. Successful networking groups aim to cater to members’ emotional needs and this includes providing encouragement and inspiration to keep doing what we love.
New clients
Word-of-mouth is still a very powerful marketing tool. It’s one of the best ways to get a client to contact you for business if you have been recommended by someone. Members of networking events learn to trust and help one another. They are more likely to, not only use your business, but to recommend it to others too.
Develop friendships
It’s not easy being an entrepreneur. Female entrepreneurs are a rare breed and sometimes face friendship challenges. Many friends neglect to support the journey of entrepreneurship and it can be a lonely one. Joining a female network group helped me form a number of new friendships with women who can relate to my journey and experience. We know the pains of being a business owner and share empathy for one another. These types of friendships are enriching because they provide assurance, guidance and emotional support.
So don’t isolate yourself ladies. Go ahead and find supportive women’s networking groups you can relate to and enjoy all the benefits they offer.
FemCityⓇ Exclusive Offer
As a member myself, all my referrals get to try FemCityⓇ FREE for 30 days. This is a great way for you to learn more about this global organization, enjoy meeting other members and accessing the resource library. It’s a wonderful group I’m glad that I have found and joined. In fact, it’s been the most rewarding network so far. And you never know, we may just come across one another at one of their events in the near future.
