Owning your own business is definitely time consuming, to say the least. It is hard, but it is rewarding. The time it takes can make it difficult to do anything else however, even if the other things you need to do could be beneficial to your business. There are certain business events out there that every business owner should be attending, but many do not either because they do not recognize the importance or they do not feel that they have the time.
Business After Hours Events
These events are great for new and old business owners alike. Typically sponsored by the local Chamber of Commerce, the event is usually hosted by a different business each month. After closing, they open their doors to businesses in the community for light snacks, drinks, and a lot of networking. This is an ideal setting for relationship building in the community and is not to be missed unless absolutely necessary. If you just cannot go yourself, send a representative and try extra hard to make it the next time.
Chamber of Commerce Banquet
Most local Chambers of Commerce hold an annual banquet with dinner and a keynote speaker. Chamber members are invited, and it is a good time for all. Sometimes the speaker and the food are both quite good, other times not so much. The networking, however, is always good. Also, it shows support for your community, which goes a long way for any business. If you are not a member of the local Chamber of Commerce, fix that soon. Join the local chamber for every city in which you have an office.
Seminars by Local Colleges and University
Local colleges and universities often have small business development centers that serve the sole purpose of helping small businesses to succeed. Occasionally they will have seminars or workshops that can greatly benefit your business and employees. Get on the mail or email list, join their Facebook page, or whatever you have to do to get in the loop and find out about these events.
Bizapalooza
This online event is becoming an annual one that connects small business owners with professionals that want to see them succeed. This year the topic was Planning and Profits. Find and sign up for this and other online events to stay on top of things in the business world.
Keep Your Eyes Open in Relevant Social Media Groups
Often events will be posted in social media groups geared toward small business owners. They may be hosted by local Churches or special interest groups, and topics can vary. Depending on your business and your needs however, you could gain great continuing education this way, sometimes for free!
It is not possible to attend every event every time, but there are some that should not be missed, and others that should always be considered. This is a great list of specific events and how to find others events to help you get started.
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