The StyleSheet - For businesses that use the internet

Networking on a Dime

Posted September 11, 2009 By Jean Conover |

Networking doesn’t have to mean expensive luncheon meetings or high-dollar dues to exclusive professional groups. Here are five practical tips for getting the most out of your networking dollars:

1. Look for free events.

In the age of Social Media, free events are becoming more and more common. Networking events such as “Tweet Ups” and informal happy hours can be easily found with a little leg work. Instead of assuming that you have to pay to network, check Twitter and local online calendars for upcoming gatherings that are free of charge.

2. Don’t limit your networking to luncheons and evening events.

Oftentimes, luncheons and after-hours events carry a much higher price tag than earlier events such as a breakfast or coffee. Breakfast is a great time of day to network because people are fresh and usually haven’t gotten distracted by office tasks before the event. Breakfast events are consistently as much as $10-30 cheaper per ticket than luncheon events and usually offer more time to network before or after a speaker.

3. Meet for coffee.

If you’re trying to set up a one-on-one meeting with a prospect or potential partner, consider scheduling a coffee meeting instead of lunch. You can comfortably treat your colleague to a $3 coffee as opposed to a $20 meal. Plus, instead of spending up to an hour and a half waiting for the food and check, you may only need to spend 30-45 minutes of your and your guest’s time to discuss business.

4. Connect and check in electronically.

Utilize your email and social networking tools at the office. Many networking events today also offer podcasts of the events online. Instead of spending the bucks to attend an event, consider viewing the seminar online and then tweeting with or emailing the speakers or attendees afterwards to connect. You can make strong connections online by simply asking questions and beginning a dialogue.

5. Register early.

If you do decide it’s worth the investment to attend a professional event (and sometimes it definitely is!), make sure you register early. Most associations charge more the closer it gets to the date of the event. If you register early, you could save as much as $5-50 dollars in late fees. Registering as a walk-in is usually the most expensive charge, so plan out your week, or even better, your month of networking in advance – it will save you!

« Return to current issue

Let's get the discussion going. Please comment on this article.

Leave a Comment

Name (required)

E-mail Address (will not be published) (required)

Website