Now that we've moved to Portland I'm getting ready to start making some choices about local networking groups and events, and I'm excited about what it means for me and my business.

With the new year approaching I wanted to ask other members what your plans are for local networking in 2011?

What have you tried and realized wasn't for you, and what are you looking forward to being a part of?

Thanks in advance for your replies!

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I am planning to start out with the local CoC and branch out from there. My husband goes to their mixers (and other ones) for his job, so it may be a great way for me to start getting out there.

I would love to hear what others are doing, as this is all new to me!

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Behind the Desk Solutions - Carrie

I just joined a group run by two dynamic women that is more of a think tank then your regular networking. I also am looking to join the local CoC for the area that we are planning on moving to. It is about 30 minutes from where we are now but I would like to establish a presence there soon.

I am also continuing to attend events for two groups that are based more on education and learning than just meet-ups. There are so many groups in our area but some are more just "selling" or "social" groups that in the long run do not work for me.

I have tried many groups and I choose whether to continue based on: (1) the types of business owners in attendance and (2) the flavor of the group. Many of the groups that are made up of direct selling folks just do not fit my bill. So I look for those who are b2b rather than b2c.

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Lee Drozak
My Office Assistant

I've actually found great use in utilizing meetup.com. I assumed meetup wouldn't have any serious networking groups but they do. I will continue to go to as many professional networking events that I can. I also plan on joining the COC.

I haven't gone to many but continue to make this a primary focus in 2011. There is one way to get the locals involved and that is to get out there!

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Mary Beth Marino, Owner
The Writing Editor

This month I'm going to join Women In Business WA which is a group that meets for networking events at least twice a month. I went as a guest of a client this month and it was fantastic!
I'll also look out for another networking events that are around me. I've been to 2 and I love them, I thought I'd be scared but I actually feel quite comfortable.

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I agree re COC -- I know it's importance but have not invested the money. We live just off county line out of city limits so I could join Bartonville COC which is only $50 but would reach more people if did Peoria at about 5 or 6 times the cost.

Phillipa that is a great idea - good luck!

Tess - I know all will go great in your new location.

I look forward to posts from all of you to see how you are doing!!

Although my Spanish is good enough to network, it's not nearly good enough to work in. That sort of limits my networking activities. I do network in my area, mainly via Twitter and LinkedIn to at least start finding connections for when my Spanish is good enough. My sister (Susanne) works the Spanish clients, but since she's still got a part-time job and a family, her time available is limited.

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Hilde
www.vbbassociates.com

I joined the local CoC just this last week. I'm going to put a lot of effort in working with the community to help network myself. If that pans out I might look into other organizations in LA area as well to join for networking (which is only a few hours from here).

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Amanda Mock
My Virtual Little Helper

I joined the local Women Entrepreneurs of Southern Oregon and also purchased an associate membership with Pre-Paid Legal. Both have regularly scheduled meetings for their members.

I needed legal representation and advice for my new business and felt it would be appropriate to incorporate that as an option for my small business clients. They offered a wonderful Home Based Business Rider at the right price. The associate membership allows me the ability to network with other associates who may need help administratively getting their processes in order or other services I can offer them. It also allows me an additional service to offer my clients who are starting up and don't want to pay large retainer fees to attorneys.

The WESO group is a wonderful networking opportunity. They have monthly "Success Circles" that you can offer and receive advice from other owners. Very similar to this forum only it's face to face.

Another option I am considering is becoming a member of the local BNI group. Depending on the cost.

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Carolan @ Seguine Enterprises
www.seguine.info