Networking Events

**BolshieBastard** · 5 April 2009, 16:12

I dont now but I used to be in a networking group.

They were very cliquey (sp?) and you had to be 'one of the boys' to have any chance of success. You also got no 'referrals' if you didnt give any worthwhile ones out first. Im talking about thousand's of pounds here not odd jobs around the house.

In short, not worth it imo.

**blacjac** · 5 April 2009, 17:03

Originally posted by BolshieBastard View Post

I dont now but I used to be in a networking group.

They were very cliquey (sp?) and you had to be 'one of the boys' to have any chance of success. You also got no 'referrals' if you didnt give any worthwhile ones out first. Im talking about thousand's of pounds here not odd jobs around the house.

In short, not worth it imo.

Sounds very much like the BNI.

Most networking events are not like this at all, it's just an organised sit down meal with about an hour before or after to network with whoever you like.

I find the local chamber of commerce ones very good and have picked up a few plan b customers this way.

Not much use for my contracting skills though as they are very specialised. I go to specialist conferences for contracting networking.

**cojak** · 5 April 2009, 17:27

Yep - I make a point of attending the big conferences for my networking.

**Tensai** · 7 April 2009, 05:47

Originally posted by cojak View Post

Yep - I make a point of attending the big conferences for my networking.

.... such as?

**reddog** · 8 April 2009, 12:26

Thanks - from the replies above and other research, I don't think mainstream network events and are the way to go.

Other than vendor conferences/user groups are there any other IT related network events?

**Mustang** · 8 April 2009, 13:26

Start your own!

I have found formal networking events to be just that - too formal! If you have a sit down meal you limit who you can chat and network with so thereby limiting the effectiveness of the time. A buffet would be better but rarely organised.

I am trying to get 2 network events started in London. I woud have preferred in my local area but it's hard enough to get people to attend in the City, let alone the sticks!!

I am publicising them on a networking site and planning them once a month. Venue is the hardest point. The aim is to socialise (have a few beers) and chat. Topic of conversation can be about any issue related to the theme of the group. For one group the theme is project managers in London; topics could cover methodologies, challanges, opportunities, tools - all related to project management or running projects. I was reluctant to focus on "networking" since a lot of people network without even knowing they are doing it!!

If anyone wants further info then just PM me and I will provide further info on the 2 "events" I have set up so far.

HTH

**The Agents View** · 8 April 2009, 15:00

Olympia conference centre - does a reasonable spread, and best of all, in the holding room (ie not the auditorium) there's a bar.......

**NickNick** · 8 April 2009, 15:03

I used to take part in both the First Tuesday ones (before the dot com bust) which were not for me. Since then I go out twice a month on more informal ones (in the pub) with contractors from / staying in my home town and also with neighbours.

Both of which I find v useful for job leads and one of which landed me my last contract.

**Mustang** · 9 April 2009, 11:33

Originally posted by The Agents View View Post

Olympia conference centre - does a reasonable spread, and best of all, in the holding room (ie not the auditorium) there's a bar.......

Do they charge much for the use?

Networking Events