What are the most effective networking events for personal coaches?

Online networking events can be highly effective when well-planned and executed. I recently attended a session with 80 small business owners on another platform. The facilitator created a speed dating-like structure: a brief intro followed by 7-minute one-on-one sessions. I met five interesting people and made some great contacts. If you are new to online networking, I suggest its worth a try.

There are a number of platforms and organizations that host online networking events, and online events can be a great addition to your networking plan. As you prepare for an online event, be sure to have your "elevator pitch" down - a brief description of who you help, what you help them with, and what makes your approach unique. 30-45 seconds is great. Have a few questions ready for online networking events, such as: - What do you love most about what you do? - Who is your dream client? - What surprises you the most about your work? Asking engaging, open-ended questions makes you memorable, and helps develop rapport with others. Finally, be sure to connect with those you want to get to know after the online event ends.

ICF has several chapter events that are available free or minimal cost to ICF members. If you are a Gallup Strengths coach, Gallup has its annual learning series and annual summits. Facebook has fantastic community groups for themes or pratcie areas.

In-person networking events are still one of the top resources when landing clients and building partnerships. I know virtual is popular but, nothing beats a good 'ole vibe check to see if your time is being valued. These events are key to being able to make a lasting professional impression with others.

Nothing beats the age old tradition of meeting people in person. There is so much you can achieve by going to these events. Though it can be costly , you can earn that back by connecting with only a few good people Who can then refer you to others. It's the quality of your connection that matters

In-person events often do come at a cost and may not be in your city. My tip is: Research 2-3 solid in-person events annually around you, read the speaker lineup, and research the potential audience. Define for yourself what you wish to gain out of these - networking, learning opportunities, visibility. Post the event, try and summarise your learnings, add your new connections to your Linkedin, and stay engaged.

Niche events can help shorten the curve on building an effective network. Look for events where people in your target market, or your target referral partners, are likely to be. If there is another coach at the event who shares a similar niche to yours, consider talking to them instead of avoiding or resenting them. Having a conversation might result in a collaboration, referrals, or a new friend in the industry.

Casual events (especially ones that you're already involved with or genuinely interested in) can be a great way to network and practice speaking about what you do. The people you volunteer with, the other parents at a child's sporting event, or the attendees at a luncheon may know someone who could use your services - or, they may be a great fit, themselves. That being said, casual networking is the most effective when it happens organically. Rather than leading by talking about what you do, start a conversation by asking about the other person - their interests, profession, etc. They will typically reciprocate, and ask about you. As always with networking, focus on building relationships, first and foremost.

Shape your coaching journey by connecting with fellow coaches on LinkedIn?? Their advice is pure gold dust. In the last year, I've reached out to numerous coaches (most will be happy to connect!), delving into their journeys, learning from their experiences, and gaining valuable insights on pitfalls to avoid. It's been a fantastic way to shape my coaching identity. ??

Coaches are a unique tribe, they're much evolved in their minds and are open to conversations. This is also a space where collaborating on assignments is a regular feature. By showing up, you also get to position your self, what you bring to discussions and the value adds of someone connects with you or partners with you.