Top 100 Best Places To Network – Part 2
As expert networkers, people often ask us for our best networking tips to help ensure their networking success.
In part 1 of this series, we introduced our format where we mentioned that we decided to ask our audiences to give us some ideas, in addition to adding many of our own.
Part 2 of this blog post will follow the same exciting format.
For the second part of our Top 100 Best Places to Network series, we’ll continue with our comprehensive and creative list of the next 50 best locations to network at so that you’ll never be out of ideas!
Keep in mind that depending on the COVID restrictions in your area, some of these in-person options might not currently be available.
But we’ve got you covered with our new online course that you can take in the meantime to refine your skills, and learn more about how to network positively for both individuals and organizations.
And without further ado, let’s get started on the next 50 best networking locations in our places to network list!
Best Location for Networking Tips – Part 2
1. Volunteer at Your Kids’ Schools
Starting off our list is a suggestion from one of our audience members who mentioned that they “make the time to go hand out pizza on pizza day, instead of just leaving it to stay-home moms and dads.” We think this is an excellent way to network while having fun at the same time.
2. Meetup Events
Meetup is a great option to meet people, make friends, find support, and of course, network! It’s also free to join, and there are new events being added every day to choose from that can be customized to your interests. You can also start your own group, and create a meetup event of your own!
3. Industry Association Education
If you’re attending any professional development accredited courses (PD credits), one of our audience members mentioned that they never “forget their business cards.” After all, everything you do is a new opportunity to network.
4. Government-Hosted Conferences and Events
We’ve previously discussed conferences in part 1 of our Best Places to Network blog post, but it’s important to note that government-hosted conferences and events are also great to consider when looking for your perfect networking opportunity.
Often taking a global view and attracting attendees from across the world, these conferences will give you a great opportunity to not only network, but practice your additional language skills.
5. Business Initiatives
One of our audience members suggested this best networking tip and mentioned that “when companies launch something, or celebrate something, I show up.” We couldn’t agree more! Celebrating wins with others in ANY industry shows that you’re a positive, supportive professional and in turn, is likely to win you some kudos with your peers.
6. Political Campaigns
This one made us laugh a little when an audience member described attending political campaigns as “intense bonding with like-minded people.” If you’re politically minded and feel so inclined, this could be a great way to expand your network.
7. Fundraising Events
Give yourself a reason to get fancy and attend cocktail receptions or luncheons for charities such as Big Sisters, Big Brothers, Boys and Girls Clubs, and Dress for Success. This way, you can support your local community while building relationships.
8. Big Ticket Galas
Yet another excellent suggestion from one of our audience members (did we mention that we have AMAZING people at our in-person sessions?) “I try to go to at least one Big Ticket Gala a year, and usually the same one, where I continue to build my profile.” Impressive!
9. Trade Shows
This one’s another classic best places to network idea, but the person who suggested it to us had some interesting comments on how they network at Trade Shows – “I talk to other attendees, and find products or services that might be of interest to colleagues and customers, even if they’re not a fit for me.” Talk about discovering what you can do for others!
10. Scheduled Weekly Lunches with Team Members
For those of you that think it’s not as important to networking internally, think again. One of our audience members said it better than we could when they commented that “strong, supportive internal networks make work better for everyone.”
11. Luncheons with Interesting Speakers
Regardless of if you’re hiring someone to come into your workplace, or attending at another location, luncheons with interesting speakers are a great way to learn something, and meet new people. In addition, you could always stick around afterwards if time allows, to network with the speaker themselves.
12. Events with Interesting Sponsors
Typically, people who are sponsoring events have their senior team members attend. This means that even if you’re not particularly interested in an event, or a topic, you should still consider attending as it will give you the opportunity to meet key decision makers from the sponsor companies.
13. On-Site Volunteering Opportunities
There’s way too many of these types of networking opportunities to mention, but to name a few, jazz festivals, film festivals, and runs for charity are a great start. You’ll likely be paired up with at least one other person that you don’t know which presents you with the opportunity to network with ease.
14. Gym, Workout classes, and Yoga
Although you might find talking to people while working out to be daunting, just take the time that you spend talking to yourself in the mirror and use the time to talk to others. After all, it’s not how you look, it’s how you feel, and conversation can be a great serotonin booster.
15. Go to a Language Class
Want to catch up on your Spanish before your upcoming trip to Costa Rica (which by the way, you can also network on), then what better way to learn a language AND network than taking a language class as part of an in-person or online group.
Bonus networking tip: Go to a Meetup that’s specific for whatever language you learn to develop your conversational (ahem, networking) skills.
16. Become a Board Member for an Industry/Business Association
Joining a board is a great way to get to know others who share similar interests, and be a part of helping an organization thrive. A hot tip from one of our audience members is to “know this doesn’t happen without putting in the time” – and we agree. Being on a board is a huge responsibility, so only choose this option if you actually have the time to put in a meaningful amount of support.
17. Volunteer as a Board Member for a Not-for-Profit
This was another incredible suggestion from one of our audience members. They specifically mentioned that they like this idea more than #16 on our best places to network list, as they were intrinsically motivated to help and the networking just flowed from there.
18. Parties at your Children’s Daycare Centre
One of our audience members who’s also a parent mentioned this suggestion and indicated that “attending parties is how I get to know other parents.” We’ve never been one to shy away from a party, so if the occasion calls – go for it!
19. Leadership Circles Hosted by your Company
Many companies host leadership circles where key team members attend to become effective and inspiring leaders. Make sure you have a seat at that table, because the networking opportunities will abound.
20. After Work Receptions
Regardless of if they’re held internally, or in the community, after work receptions are a great way to network alongside some of your team members, or even by yourself. One of our audience members pointed out that even their family approves as “they know this is takeout night for them.”
21. Workshops
There are so many workshops available, and many of them are free! You can learn about anything from baking bread (hello, COVID pastime) to how to effectively use social media to gain brand awareness. Not only will you walk away with a new skill, but you’ll also have endless opportunities to network with others in the workshop.
22. Community Barbecues, and Foodie Events
This is probably one of our favourites, as we’re partial to good food – but then again, who isn’t? By attending your community barbecues and foodie events, both your stomach, and your networking mentors (that’s us!) will be pleasantly happy.
23. Local Festivals
In the warmer months of the year, there’s countless local festivals that you can attend. You can go along, with a group, or even take the suggestion from one of our audience members and “volunteer for your company if they’re a sponsor”. We love this creative thinking!
24. Cycling Group
Have you ever noticed how many people cycle in groups? We sure have and it’s no coincidence. Cycling allows you to meet every week, ride together, and then stop for food and conversations with a very diverse group of people.
25. Undergrad and Graduate Student Societies
If you’re a student, like one of our audience members was, then this suggestion is for you! They mentioned that joining either an undergrad or graduate student society will allow you to “hear amazing university guest speakers where there’s a meet and greet networking opportunity as well, and usually the price of tickets is a bargain”.
26. Informal Referral Exchange Group
You might be thinking to yourself, what is an informal referral exchange group. It’s basically a group that anyone can put together for mutual benefit – so now’s your chance! Try to start your own informal referral exchange group amongst your friends/family.
27. Volunteer Workshops at the YWCA
When you attend volunteer workshops at the YWCA, you can either be there as an attendee, or as a presenter (e.g. a business coach providing information to budding entrepreneurs.) And you guessed it, this is definitely one of the best ways to network in an organic way.
28. Interesting Clubs with Like-Minded People
Have you ever considered joining a club? From chess and geocaching, to clubs for singles such as Events and Adventures, there will always be a networking opportunity or two, along with a lot of fun to be had.
29. Talk to Strangers
We know that this was something that your parents (hopefully) told you not to do when you were younger, but rules are meant to be broken! As one of our audience members said, “I always stay open to talking to strangers” and we agree. You never know who you’re standing beside!
30. Local Theatre Group Participant or Volunteer
Are you a budding actor, set decorator, or producer? Consider joining your local theatre group as a participant, where you’ll meet people from all walks of life. If none of those options appeal to you, you can also join the “Board of Directors for a local Performing Arts Centre” as one of our audience members suggested.
31. International Volunteering
Craving a vacation where you can volunteer, give back, AND network. International volunteering is your best bet. From building schools, to sharing expertise, you’ll find everything you’re looking for and more, perhaps even a tan!
32. Starbucks (or any other coffee place, really)
Number #32 of our best networking location tip is definitely worth mentioning, as coffee shops are the perfect places to go when you’re looking for quick and inexpensive ways to connect or reconnect.
33. A Cup of Virtual Tea or Coffee
Are COVID restrictions getting you down? Do you prefer to see someone’s smile when networking? Consider meeting them face-to-face through Zoom or Google Hangouts, so you can have a cup of coffee or tea with someone else without ever having to leave the comfort of your own home.
Bonus tip: As long as you look professional from the waist up, you can definitely keep your comfy pants on as the person you’re speaking to will never know.
34. Social Events for Young Professionals (that aren’t labelled “Networking Event”)
If you’ve read our about page on our website, you’ll know that we often share with our audience that networking is about building strategic relationships in everyday life. This means that even if something isn’t labeled as a networking event, you should still consider it as an opportunity to network – because it is!
35. Small Private Gyms
One of our audience members mentioned #35 in our list to us and indicated that small private gyms offered them “some of the best networking opportunities” as they had been attending there for 5 years.
36. Funerals
Ok, we know what you’re thinking. Networking at a funeral? But one of our audience members mentioned that they often network at funerals as it gives them the opportunity to “see people they haven’t seen in years.” This is where the strategy comes in, as you likely wouldn’t want to be planning a party at a funeral, but you could definitely catch up with others and make plans to discuss things in the coming weeks. Of course, weddings are even better!
37. Dog Obedience, Agility Dog Classes, and Dog Shows
If you have a dog, this networking opportunity should be a breeze. One of the easiest ways to start a conversation with someone else is to have something in common, and dog lovers are very passionate about their furry friends, so you’ll have instant camaraderie with others in attendance.
38. Soup Kitchen Volunteering
We love the idea of volunteering at a soup kitchen, and think that any volunteer opportunity is an excellent way to network. Check out The Soup Sisters to learn more about organizations that are taking a common volunteer opportunity and offering a different twist.
39. Life Groups
If you haven’t heard of life groups, they’re small gatherings of around 6 to 12 people that meet on a regular basis to discuss life, family, and faith. As attendees share their feelings and experiences on a wide variety of topics, you’ll always have something to discuss with other group members without having to come up with an icebreaker.
40. Riding the Bus, Train, Plane…
Have you ever noticed that some people stare at their phones while they’re commuting? Don’t be one of those people! Where else can you find yourself surrounded by people from all walks of life (aka – networking opportunities!)
41. Intermissions
Heading into the lobby for intermission at a show to get a drink or a snack? Don’t forget to mingle in the lobby before heading back to your seat, as one of our audience members suggested, “intermissions are a great way to connect with others in the lobby”. Be bold and start a conversation with someone standing alone.
Easy first question: “What do you think about the performance so far?”
42. Walking Clubs
If running isn’t your thing, there’s also a plethora of walking clubs (and even some speed-walking clubs!) Join one, and use the time that you’re getting in shape, and not getting out of breath, to network with your fellow walkers while you enjoy the view.
43. Walking Tours in Your City
Walking tours are often put on by Heritage Societies, Architectural Institutes, etc are a great way to get to know interesting people and facts about the place that you live. As a bonus, you’ll also be an excellent addition to anyone’s trivia team (which by the way, is also an excellent way to network!)
44. Go to Networking on your City Websites
Many city websites have a networking section, where you can learn about city sponsored and non-city sponsored events that you can attend to keep building that network!
45. International Organization Meetings
Think beyond local networks and sit on the international boards of organizations you volunteer for locally (e.g. World Organization of the Scout Movement). This way, you’ll be building your local as well as international network. Oh the possibilities!
46. Angel Investor Events
Even if you’re not looking for someone to invest in your business, any event you attend is an opportunity to gather knowledge, and make connections for your career and business growth.
47. Cause-Based Events
If you’re a social activist, this one’s for you. When you attend cause-based events, you automatically have something in common with every person in the room which will make the conversations, and the networking, flow.
48. Employees’ Association at Work
There are many different ways you can get involved with your employees’ association or union, and if you’re unsure how, just ask another member. They’re always looking for people to get involved, and of course, there’s tons of networking opportunities to be had.
49. Any Opportunity to Engage with Others who Share the Same Passion
This was another excellent suggestion from one of our audience members. They mentioned that “I have a passion for hockey, especially at the junior level. It is amazing to me the number of contacts I have developed through that interest and alignments I am able to make with the business I am in. The common ground often leads to unexpected connections.” Couldn’t have said it better ourselves.
50. Think Differently About Networking
And we saved the best for last. Don’t just think of networking as an event, it’s an attitude. “If there are two people, it’s an opportunity to connect.”
Wrapping it up
This concludes our list of our Best Networking Tips on the 100 Best Places to Network, but our relationship doesn’t need to end here. Here’s some other ways that we can continue to connect:
- Sign up to get our Free Networking Tips so you’ll always be in the know
- Check out our amazing line-up of networking programs that are offered through our new online course, via live webinar, or through in-person speaker presentations and keynotes.
- Contact us and let us know some of your own networking tips and we’ll feature you in an upcoming blog post!
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