Not Working? Try Networking!

By: Mark Berger

It’s been several years since the world was hit with a crippling pandemic that shut everything down. Much has been written and said since March 2020, regarding how business leaders and owners should proceed during that period. Zoom and Teams apps were created to keep businesses connected and moving forward. The need for such devices and technology then sought to maintain productivity and keep executives from imposing layoffs and closing their doors.

As the world continues healing itself from Covid-19, more people want to connect with other like-minded professionals, in person. Some people have returned to networking as a resource to expand their contacts. It’s a tried-and-true way of accomplishing this goal—going to events to meet new people and pitch who you are and what you do. More professionals are making the jump from video conferences to in-person networking. Because of this, the process of figuring out where to go and who to meet becomes very important.

While there are so many events happening statewide, nobody has the time to attend all of them. Even those so-called “serial networkers” have to eat and sleep some time. Here are some options to consider:

When should someone attend a networking event? This can only be answered by the individual, but with numerous events statewide at different places and times during the day. If you are a morning person, then perhaps a “Morning Coffee” (often put on by various Chambers of Commerce) or a “Welcome Wednesday” (hosted by the Northern Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce) may be your choice. These events are open before the business day starts at 9:00 AM. They offer chances to meet other people from other industries, share stories, and exchange information. This can lead to face-to-face meetings and projects, as a result.

For any upcoming morning coffee events, please visit your local Chamber for more details. The “Welcome Wednesday” event usually meets monthly on the first Wednesday at Big Brothers Big Sisters of Rhode Island on 188 Valley Street, Ste. 125, Providence. Registration is free but required through the Chamber’s website at www. nrichamber.com. Further details can be found either on the website or calling them at 401-3341000.

How about networking during lunch time? There are plenty of “Lunch and Learn” events happening throughout the region. One of the more popular ones is put on by the Central Rhode Island Chamber of Commerce. Their “Leads Luncheon” typically happens on the fourth Friday of the month at various locations within Central Rhode Island (often within Warwick and Cranston member establishments).

They offer several rounds of “speed networking,” where attendees pitch themselves, pass out business cards and make connections. The event is fun and the business opportunities arise from those who attend.

Anyone interested in learning more may visit the Central Rhode Island Chamber website at www. centralrichamber.com. They can obtain details and register there. There is a charge for Chamber members, their guests and slightly more for nonChamber members.

Evening events often offers a way to unwind after a long day. There are many organizations that sponsor events ranging from painting and wine to bowling and fundraising events.

Speaking of fundraising, charity events are great opportunities to network and support various causes. People are already there to help others so it becomes the best of both worlds.

Because of the sheer number of charities doing yeoman’s work, take the time to research any of the hundreds of charities registered in Rhode Island, and throw your support to them. It can give people the chance to connect with a common bond.

One doesn’t need to stay in Rhode Island to network. One networking event that generates a buzz monthly is Momentum Networking. Formally known as 4th Monday Networking, they take over Towne Tavern and Tap in Attleboro and have food, conversation, and discuss upcoming events. Bob Salvas has been running this monthly event for well over a decade.

Networking can be numerous and intimidating if you aren’t sure where to go or what to do. This is where having an event guide helps to plan out the week. Several professionals send out weekly Networking newsletters that highlight all events in the region. These are free newsletters that come are emailed weekly.

To become a part of their respective list, please email them directly. They also accept submissions for any event happening in Rhode Island and southeastern Massachusetts at no charge.

Contact Bob Salvas at Bob@bobsalvas.com for the Momentum Networking Newsletter and to attend his monthly event.

Contact Jay White at Jaywhitebiz1@cox.net for “Uncle Jay’s” Traveling Breakfast Network.

Richard Austin may be reached at Rich@speakingofsuccess.us for his Total Exposure Networking Newsletter.

Feel free to mention my name to them when you do.

Mark Berger is the Principal of Berg’s Eye Communications in Cumberland. He is considered to be a “serial networker” who uses the Power of Networking to help clients share their story. Contact him at 401-365-2202 or markb@bergseyeprri.com.