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941-627-2222

Build strong business networking skills

March 3, 2025

Through my many years in the chamber industry, 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, 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

Here are some upcoming chamber member events. Register for these at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.

  • Atlanta Braves vs. Minnesota Twins spring training game, 1 p.m. March 4 at Cool Today Park, 18800 S. West Villages Parkway, North Port. Gates open at 11:30 a.m. We have reserved the Aaron’s Porch suite. Tickets are $67, which includes parking, game and a catered lunch. Registration is required. Visit charlottecountychamber.org or call the chamber office. Only 10 tickets remain.
  • Stages of Success Workshop, 9-10 a.m. March 7 at Punta Gorda Association of Realtors, 3320 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte. Topic: Leveraging Your Chamber Membership. Presented by Jami Joannes, Charlotte County Chambers Program & Event director. Unlock the full potential of your chamber membership with this comprehensive class. Learn how to leverage networking events, marketing initiative, and annual events. Discover opportunities for advocacy, information-sharing, and leadership through involvement in committees. This session will equip you with practical strategies to grow your business, build connections, and maximize your membership benefits.
  • Network at Noon Lunch, 11:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 12 at Event Groupie, 483 Collingswood Blvd., Port Charlotte. Enjoy a delicious lunch and network with the best.
  • Third Wednesday Coffee, 8-9 a.m. March 19 at the Realtors Association, 3320 Loveland Blvd., Port Charlotte. Coffee sponsor: Pool Boy. Guest Speaker is Shelley Strickland, CEO, Charlotte Community Foundation. This will be an excellent opportunity for our members to get a full understanding of the tremendous impact the Charlotte Community Foundation makes locally. Immediately following our program, we’ll have a ribbon cutting for Pelican Patrol Home Watch Service
  • Business Card Exchange, 5-7 p.m. March 27 at Fedora’s Cigar & Wine Bar, 2177 Tamiami Trail, Punta Gorda. Appetizers and refreshments will be provided for this big party. There will be a fun icebreaker game for everyone. Please bring a gift to promote your business. Don’t forget your business cards.

SPECIAL EVENTS

F.U.N. Force Line Dancing will be 5:15-10 p.m. March 13 at the Twisted Fork, 2208 El Jobean Road, Port Charlotte. The Charlotte County Chamber’s “social committee” — commonly known as F.U.N. Force (Fostering Unique Networking) — is ready to kick off our first social event for 2025. There will be line dancing, and 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 is required at charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222. All are welcome

The 14th Annual Charlotte County Chamber Classic is set for May 10 at the Aileron Gulf Club, 11274 SE Aileron Way, Lake Suzy. This is your opportunity to golf at Sunseeker Resort’s exclusive golf course. Check-in is at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. All are welcome to participate is our golf tournament which funds our Junior Leadership Charlotte Program for high school juniors. Sign up your foursome today. Contact the chamber office at 941-627-2222 or visit charlottecountychamber.org to register your team.

Bob White is executive director of the Charlotte County Chamber of Commerce and may be reached at bwhite@charlottecountychamber.org or 941-627-2222.

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