Speed networking can be a lot of fun for your chamber members but occasionally, due to time constraints, some people don’t get to share or make the connections they were hoping for. How can you ensure everyone gets a moment to speak and the matchmaking is as effective as possible? Here are a few suggestions pulled from successful chamber speed networking events:
Tips for Chamber Speed Networking
Playing Cards
The Monona East Side Business Alliance has used this method for ensuring everyone gets time to talk. Use playing cards to divvy up the groups. As each person comes in, hand them a card. Group card types together. Aces in one group, kings in another, etc. The group leader is the person holding the spade suit and that person facilitates the discussion around:
- Introductions
- Name
- Organization
- Who would be your ideal customer/client Why?
Bonus Round
If you have more participants than time to meet everyone, include a bonus round or lunch afterward. Encourage people to circulate amidst those they didn’t have time for earlier. Attendees at the Georgetown Chamber of Commerce loved this idea. You can also provide people with a list of attendees so that they can reach out afterward with a common connection of being at the event.
Small Groups
Sometimes, too many people is not the problem. If you find that your chamber speed networking event has a handful of people, make the most of it. One chamber pro suggested sitting around a large table in these situations. Each person receives 90 seconds to introduce themselves and their business/organization in an elevator pitch. Next, the whole group takes turns answering 2-3 questions. These questions might include:
- ideal client/customer
- favorite quote
- fun fact about company etc.
- best business advice they’ve ever received
Then there’s about half an hour left to network and get to know those better who might be a good fit for the business. Runtime is usually about an hour to hour and a half with a group of 10 or under.
Do you have ideas on how to host a successful chamber speed networking event? Share them here.
