Virtual Assistant Forums | Work from Home

VBP · #11 (**permalink**) 08-12-2008

Originally Posted by karrieu

Does anyone out there know if there are any networking events that meet in the evenings for us that are just starting up and do have to work full time. I know in my area they have a networking group but they only meet in the mornings and that doesn't work for me. I also saw someone mention on this thread about online events. What are those and where can I locate them?

Thanks

Karrie

In my Chamber of Commerce, they host what are called BAHs, which are Business After Hours events. They usually run from 5 - 7 p.m. I would recommend seeing if your local or surrounding chamber's offer any of those events!

Administrative Partners · #12 (**permalink**) 08-12-2008

My clients have come from RFPs and networking. Networking being the most effective for me so far. I also work full time, but I take off of work for certain events that are sure to be great. For instance, I believe you are in the DC area. There is an event for Women Entreprenuer's in Springfield, VA coming up on Oct 24. I've included information in the welcome bags about my business and am planning to attend and network that day. I think thats worth a day off.

Last time I called in sick I got two clients from a networking event. Well worth it in my opinion. But then again I have 4 weeks of vacation and haven't taken a vacation all year, so I have plenty to use.

walkerva · #13 (**permalink**) 08-12-2008

Quote:

Does anyone out there know if there are any networking events that meet in the evenings for us that are just starting up and do have to work full time.

I guess this depends on where you are in relation to large population centers. If you are very rural, there will be less opportunity to network. If you are able to travel to major cities, like Baltimore or DC (I notice you are in Maryland), there should be a lot of networking in the evenings. I live in Phoenix and every surrounding city has a Chamber, plus the Phoenix Chamber, and demographic chambers (hispanic, black, etc.). I found myself at a Philipine-American Chamber of Commerce meeting last week in the evening. They didn't seem too picky about attendee demographic profile. All of my local chambers have event lists and registration on their websites.

The trick is to go regularly and develop relationships with people who will introduce you to others and keep expanding your network. (You need to return the favor.) Then you all look for opportunities to help (and refer) each other. I have one friend I met at the Chamber a couple of months ago (and kept meeting) who has really expanded my network through inviting me to groups and events. I've had networking opportunities I never knew existed.

The only downside I find to evening events is that they tend to be mixers, which amounts to walking into a bar and talking to strangers. I find it very difficult, but some people are very comfortable with the venue. It's just not my favorite activity. That said, I'm going to a mixer tonight, so I guess I'm a glutton for punishment.

My local business journal also lists networking events, mixers, etc., so if you have a local business paper, that might be a source of information for you also.

Monique · #14 (**permalink**) 08-12-2008

Facebook Groups is a great place to start for online networking events. Another place to look for local events is your chamber; Also http://www.meetup.com/ and http://biznik.com/ both cater to local events.

Also for online are Yahoo Groups they are a great place to network along with a several of social networking sites.

York Signature Assistance Inc · #15 (**permalink**) 08-12-2008

Originally Posted by VBP

In my Chamber of Commerce, they host what are called BAHs, which are Business After Hours events. They usually run from 5 - 7 p.m. I would recommend seeing if your local or surrounding chamber's offer any of those events!

The Chamber of Commerce in my area offers the same event. They are actually having a multi-chamber event tomorrow in the afternoon that I plan to attend. I haven't joined the chamber yet; however, I wanted to at least attend a function and pass out business cards and get my name out there. The Chamber is a good place to start.

Sincerely,
sy(Sheila)

shdws1 · #16 (**permalink**) 01-28-2009

Two things I did to kickstart my business: 1. I emailed my towns mayor and explained my situation and he promptly referred two local companies to me. (I will definitely vote for him again!) 2. I started an email communication with the Director for my local chamber and he also referred my company on to other businesses and has been a great asset to informing me when events are coming up that I could benefit from. I am a firm believer that it never hurts to ask and you will probably be pleasantly surprised at how many people are willing to help you.

vpapa · #17 (**permalink**) 02-05-2009

Wow this is a great blog I learned much from this and so far from this forum. I look forward to having my first client. I just advertised on www.newyork.kijiji.com and the best part is that it is free. I will try other websites as well.
Thanks.

5 Starr Solutions · #18 (**permalink**) 02-07-2009

I'm struggling with this too. I just moved to a new state so I don't necessarily have the "contacts" I had where I used to live. For me, I know the networking piece will be the hardest and what I'll have to work on most. I tend to be a little shy... I know I have great skills, but tooting my own horn has never come easy. Lesson one of owning your own business I'm finding out. :-)

Cecilia · #19 (**permalink**) 02-10-2009

Hi Kelly, I got my first two clients by sending local businesses a letter. I let them know that I am in their area, and I gave them a brief synopsis of how I can help them with their bookkeeping needs. I always offer a free consultation and thank goodness, they always say 'yes.' Good luck!

Hope this helps.

Cecilia :-)