Build strong business networking skills
February 3, 2025
Through my many years in the chamber landscape, networking skills are essential for building relationships, expanding your knowledge, and growing your business.
So many times, at events where networking opportunities present themselves folks tend to stay in their comfort zone, only hanging with their friends, which in essence is not effective networking.
When coming to an event, it is always good to establish specific goals such as meeting a certain number of new contacts, connecting with industry influencers, or learning about a particular topic.
Have a clear understanding of what you want to achieve from our and/or any networking event, prepare your elevator pitch, and bring plenty of business cards.
A key initiative is always to focus on building relationships by actively listening to others, asking questions, and showing genuine interest in their work. After the event, follow up with the people you connected with. Send a personalized email or connect on LinkedIn to continue the conversation and strengthen the relationship.
Offer help or share resources with your contacts to demonstrate your expertise, build trust and value.
Don’t limit yourself to people in your industry or profession. Connect with individuals from different backgrounds and industries to gain diverse perspectives and opportunities. Use platforms like LinkedIn to connect with professionals in your industry, share valuable content, and engage in industry discussions. Share your knowledge and expertise through blogs, articles, podcasts, or speaking engagements to establish yourself as a thoughtful leader in your industry.
A very important characteristic is to be yourself and show genuine interest in others. Authenticity can help you build stronger and more meaningful connections.
Remember, networking is a long-term investment, so focus on building relationships and providing value rather than just seeking immediate benefits.
Keep nurturing your network over time, and you’ll see the benefits in your business growth and opportunities.
MEMBER EVENTS
- Stages of Success Workshop virtual session, Feb. 7. Topic: “Simple AI, Social Media & Personal Branding.” Speaker: Steve Black, Nationally renowned author, speaker, and consultant. Areas of learning: business and marketing planning. Clarify your goals, create actionable plans, build a powerful network, and stay top-of-mind with key connections. “Social Media & Video Marketing”: Craft impactful messages to reach your ideal audience on platforms like Facebook, Instagram, YouTube, and more, with live demos and post-event resources. “Sales & Communication Skills”: Master effective language, avoid common pitfalls, and use strategic questioning and follow-ups to secure agreements without being pushy. Perfect for professionals seeking to refine their skills and achieve measurable success in a competitive market. Registration is required to get your link to the workshop at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Network at Noon Lunch, 1:45 a.m.-1 p.m. Feb. 12 at Aileron Aviator’s Club, Sunseeker Resort’s exclusive golf couse, 11274 Aileron Way, Lake Suzy. Valentine’s Day love will be in the air. You’ll enjoy a delicious selection of lunch options and network with the best. Registration and lunch selection is required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Third Wednesday Coffee, 8-9 a.m. Feb. 19 at the Realtor Association, 3320 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte. Coffee sponsor is Virginia B. Andes Volunteer Community Clinic. There will be delicious breakfast. Guest Speaker/Program: Emily Lewis, Deputy County Administrator, who will present The State of the County Address. This be an excellent opportunity for our members to hear what progress and strategic initiatives that are planned for Charlotte County. New member inductions. Immediately following our program, we’ll conduct a ribbon-cutting for My Apex Marketing. Registration required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. Feb. 27 at Christian Brothers Auto, 24130 Beatrix Blvd., Port Charlotte. Snacks and beverages will be provided. There will be a fun ice-breaker game for everyone. Please bring a gift to promote your business. Don’t forget your business cards. Registration required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
PUBLIC EVENTS
- The Charlotte County Chamber’s “Social Committee,” known as F.U.N. Force (Fostering Unique Networking) is ready to kick off our first social event for 2025 with Line Dancing at the Twisted Fork, set for 5:15-10 p.m. Feb. 20. Prizes will be awarded for Biggest Hair, Biggest Hat, and Biggest Belt Buckle. The cost is $10, which includes cheese and supreme pizza, tater tots, and soft drinks. Special thanks to our sponsor Elite Hurricane Home Protection. Registration required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
RIBBON-CUTTING CEREMONIES
Ribbon cuttings are an effective way to meet the business owners — and fellow chamber members — in an informal atmosphere and develop great connections. Plus, you get familiar with their products and services provided. Registration is required for all ribbon cuttings at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.
- Punta Gorda Car Consulting, Feb. 4, 318 Tamiami Trail, Suite 121, Punta Gorda, 5-6 p.m. with ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Light snacks and refreshments will be provided. There will also be a raffle for attendees for auto art.
- Merry Maids of Charlotte & DeSoto County / Convenient Tax Service grand reopening, Feb. 6, 3271 Tamiami Trail, Unit B, Port Charlotte, 5-6 p.m. with ribbon cutting at 5:30 p.m. Food, refreshments, and a raffle for attendees for a complimentary two hours cleaning.
- Peace River Wildlife Center grand reopening, Feb. 7, 3400 Ponce DeLeon Parkway, Punta Gorda, 4-6 p.m., with ribbon cutting at 5 p.m. Light appetizers and refreshments will be provided.
CHAMBER EXPO IS COMING
The Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce will host its 14th annual Consumer Marketplace Expo, “The Hottest Business Day in Paradise” from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Feb. 13 at the Charlotte Harbor Event & Conference Center. This event is free and open to the public. The first 500 attendees will receive a complimentary goodie bag to collect valuable swag. Come check out the 100-plus local Charlotte County businesses and see all the amazing products and services they provide to meet your needs. Each attendee will be given a passport to be signed by the exhibitors to enter for a Grand Prize drawing.
Bob White is executive director of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.