Networking
I recently joined a networking group as a way to get out of the office and meet more business professionals. Networking groups are a good way to meet new people, share new ideas and eventually, generate more business for everyone concerned.
The group I joined was not the first one I checked out. First I went to the Internet and searched for Edmonton area groups. I found hundreds of groups and then narrowed it down to just a few for more investigation.
Then, coincidentally I was invited to attend a network group breakfast as a guest. It was an interesting experience and while I met some interesting people the format was very rigid and not to my liking. The annual fees were also an issue.
Then I was invited to join a less formal group. That one was much less expensive and has a large membership from a wide variety of professions. The first meeting I went to was a lunch meeting and it was structured but informal. I felt very much at ease.
By the second meeting I felt very much a part of the group. There was little hesitation on my part to join this group and I’m looking forward to future meetings and events.