Whether you like hanging out at home and binging a series over takeout or dining out with newfound friends, networking is a critical part of your professional success. If you are a small business owner, an entrepreneur or a corporate employee looking for opportunities, networking will expand the potential for growing your business and career. Westborough, and the surrounding regions offer a robust landscape for networking, blending traditional methods like the many local chambers of commerce with 21st century opportunities such as shared workspaces.
The following networking tips have been updated from our original blog post in 2016:
1. Leverage Shared Workspaces
Shared workspaces have become an easy, convenient hub for networking In Westborough, WorkCentral stands out as a prime location, offering Class A private serviced offices and conference facilities. Here, you can enjoy the privacy of your own office or use a meeting room while benefiting from shared amenities and the vibrant community of professionals. This blend of privacy and community makes WorkCentral an ideal spot for both focused work and organic networking.
Tip: Engage with other professionals in the common areas, such as the lounge or kitchen, and attend any hosted events or holiday parties at lunchtime, with food and drinks provided by WorkCentral. These casual interactions can lead to valuable networking opportunities, turning your workspace into a gateway for professional growth.
2. Join Local Networking Groups
Westborough and the MetroWest area is home to several networking groups that cater to various industries and interests. Whether you're a tech enthusiast, a small business owner, or a professional seeking career growth, there's at least one (or several) that will work for you.
Key Groups to Consider:
MetroWest Chamber of Commerce: A staple in the local business community, this group offers seminars, networking opportunities, and local business opening events.
Worcester Chamber of Commerce: This chamber is the largest in New England and a perfect place to expand your connections in the Worcester area.
Central Massachusetts Networking Group (CMNG): This group focuses on building connections between professionals across various industries in Central Massachusetts.
BNI Westborough: Part of the global BNI network is focused on generating business referrals through trusted relationships.
Tip #1: Many professionals dread the idea of attending a networking event o. It’s very common – just go! You’ll find the anxiety from anticipation dissipates the minute you begin your first conversation. It can be as simple as “Hi, I’m Lisa. I don’t think we’ve met before.”
Tip #2: Consistency is key when joining a networking group. Regular attendance helps you become a familiar face, demonstrate your dedication to success, and deepens your relationships with other members.
3. Attend Local Events and Meetups
Beyond formal networking groups, Westborough and the surrounding areas host a variety of events that provide excellent networking opportunities. From industry-specific conferences to casual meetups, these events are a great way to meet like-minded individuals.
Event Examples:
MetroWest Business Expo: This annual event attracts a diverse group of professionals, offering a great platform to showcase your business or attend and network as a visitor.
Westborough Rotary Club Meetings: Engage with local leaders and contribute to community projects while expanding your professional network.
Local Meetups (e.g., via Meetup.com): Explore niche meetups that align with your interests, from tech meetups to creative workshops.
Tip: When attending events, have a goal in mind—whether it's meeting a certain number of new people, reconnecting with old contacts, or learning something new.
4. Digital Networking and Social Media
The landscape of networking has dramatically evolved since 2016. The internet has ushered in a plethora of possibilities for connectivity, with online platforms like LinkedIn becoming indispensable tools for professionals. Professionals can now cultivate relationships through virtual conferences, webinars, and social media groups. Platforms like LinkedIn allow you to connect with people you meet at events, join relevant online groups, and stay informed about upcoming networking opportunities in the area – particularly important for remote workers!.
Remember with social media networking, personal branding (how you ‘pitch’ yourself or your business) is critical as individuals seek to differentiate themselves in the crowded online space...While face-to-face interactions are invaluable, social media can act as a strategic complement to your in -person networking efforts.
Tip: After meeting someone in person, send a personalized LinkedIn connection request. Mention where you met and express interest in staying connected.
5. Follow Up and Nurture Your Connections
Networking doesn't end when you leave an event or a meeting. The real value lies in the follow-up. Send a quick email or LinkedIn message to the people you meet, thanking them for their time and suggesting a future meeting or collaboration.
Tip: Keep the relationships alive over time by sending your connections articles or links you think might interest them.
Networking is a powerful tool for professional growth, and a wonderful way to make new acquaintances and friends. Westborough and the surrounding area offer a wealth of opportunities to connect with a variety of professionals. By leveraging shared workspaces like WorkCentral, participating in local groups and events, and using social media strategically, you can build a foundation of colleagues to support your professional and personal development.
Comentários