What makes a networking event successful?

[Khalid Adam]

For those who are former and current networking junkies, what are the things that make it worthwhile?

If you had to pay $100 per month for a 4hr business networking event, what would you expect it to offer in return?

[AgentMail]

Hi Khalid,

Difficult question. I really enjoy networking events for meeting other people, and being inspired by what they have or are trying to achieve. My hesitation would be that if I were spending $100 per month, I would want something in return, when really I like participating in networking events just to network and meet other people. I would be concerned that it would be a more 'full on' networking event, as everyone would be busy trying to find what they can get back for their $100. Hope that makes sense?

[snehlata]

Your venue should be accessible and easy to find, it doesn't matter if it's the most beautiful venue in the world if people can't get there, or get home easily if it's in the evening. If people will arrive or leave in the dark, consider how safe they will feel if alone.

[MediaConnects]

I have a problem with paid networking as I believe networking should be accessible for all. Happy to pay for coffee or food or make a donation by anything over that I start to question the motives behind the session.

I have paid to go to events and in doing that I want to meet people and get something from the event that I cannot get for free. The last thing I want to find is I go to the speakers website after the event and it is all there and we got nothing new for attending and paying for the event.

Easy to find venue and parking is a must for all networking

Looking forward to seeing more of what you are planning!

[Khalid Adam]

interesting.

What about those higher end networking events where you pay so you know you got deal makers in the room and people who take action instead of just newbies?

Also what if the networking event was also partially a workshop or group coaching so you learn some strategies & tactics that help you attract more clients and position yourself differently to your competition?

take it another step, what about networking + hotseating where one on one consultation is done in a group environment and overtime, everyone can help each other because they will have the advanced knowledge and skills?

lastly what about combining networking with group masterminding (10 per table) so members can network, learn and help each other in the individual teams (After some time)?

i was part of a networking group called wealth creators back in 2004. paid i think $997 per year and met monthly at a hotel. there were speakers a few hundred people if memory serves me.

It turned out be a pitch fest but i didnt mind because there were nuggets in each speech + i knew the people there invested money and were serious about business.

Originally Posted by MediaConnects

I have a problem with paid networking as I believe networking should be accessible for all. Happy to pay for coffee or food or make a donation by anything over that I start to question the motives behind the session.

I have paid to go to events and in doing that I want to meet people and get something from the event that I cannot get for free. The last thing I want to find is I go to the speakers website after the event and it is all there and we got nothing new for attending and paying for the event.

Easy to find venue and parking is a must for all networking

Looking forward to seeing more of what you are planning!