What are the different types of business networking?
This article introduces some of the different types of business networking that you might find when looking to meet other professionals in your local area and start connecting for your business.
What are the different types of business networking groups you can attend?
In its simplest form, there are possibly six different types of business networking that a local small business may find to attend. Some may be focused on one particular area (such as referrals or industry-specific), and some business networking groups may aim to create a more blended approach to maximise the meeting opportunity.
Casual networking
Casual networking are often informal mixers that are social in nature, and often refers to groups that enable people of similar professions to connect. This can also cover meeting up for a cup of tea or lunch with new or existing contacts, meeting with colleagues, or attending events.
Referral networking
These groups meet regularly, often for breakfast and can be both formal and informal. In the formal groups, members are often expected to provide cross-referrals and there is typically a limit of one profession per industry allowed to attend. Each person in the group is actively encouraged to make referrals to other members of the group.
Business development networking
Business development networking groups will similarly meet weekly or fortnightly, however the focus is primarily based on business development rather than referrals. These types of business networking groups will most likely be aimed at directors and board level senior management, who will have decision making authority within their organisation to address the various business development opportunities that may come from the networking group.
Online and social media networking
As one expects these types of business networking are online and allow for users to connect, post, comment, read and create content to share with their connections. No necessarily location specific, and these types of business networking sites are often used by companies as marketing tools to promote their brand and to stay connected with colleagues and customers without face to face contact.
Industry associations
These groups can be found on a national or local level and are generally focused on one particular industry sector. Industry associations often provide members with relevant news and sector insights, best practices as well as some networking opportunities.
Speed networking
These types of events centre around people meeting and introducing themselves briefly with as many people as possible in a short set period of time. At speed networking an individual will often move around the room speaking to one professional at a time, and once the time is up move onto the next person. Before attending one of these types of networking meetings, it can be beneficial to practice being concise and exact about presenting your business to suit the environment.
We hope this article on the different types of business networking was helpful. Find out more about that networking group and our members. Alternatively please feel free to read more of our business networking articles or for small business sales and marketing contact that marketing company.