Most people attend traditional business networking events to expand their networks. Traditional events include functions produced by people-focused organizations (such as for women and young professionals) as well as industry-focused groups (such as for marketing and software).

Though nothing is wrong with attending these events, it’s a good idea to expand your horizons by attending some non-traditional events. By attending these events, you are providing yourself with the opportunity to meet people in a new environment who you may not meet elsewhere.

Charity Events

Events produced by charities are a fun way to meet others in a more casual environment. Many of these events require business attire and the focus of these gatherings is usually to raise money for the sponsoring organization.

The format of charity events is usually very social in nature. Food is usually served. Many events have a live auction while others may have a live band. No matter the format, charity events are set up in a fun and relaxed environment. At the very least, you will get a chance to help a worthwhile cause.

Another great reason to attend charity events is that many successful business professionals frequent these events. Not only do these professionals donate money to these groups but many are involved on the boards of these organizations.

Choose a charity in which you would like to become actively involved. Offer to help the board with important tasks such as event planning, marketing, strategy and fund-raising.

By becoming involved, you will get to know the other board members who will be good individuals to add to your network. Nurture these relationships because these may be some of the most important ones in your network.

Make sure you have a genuine interest in the cause of the charity. Otherwise, your involvement will not be as meaningful. You want the other board members to have a positive impression of you especially because they could be a good source of professional references.

Workshops

Individuals or firms with a particular expertise usually produce workshops or seminars. These events are a great way to learn about a certain subject or improve on some of your skills.

Workshops can be structured as hands-on classes or a lecture-type format. Either way, they are set up more for educational purposes than for pure networking. Still, many workshops do leave some time for networking either before or after the educational component. Take this time to get to know the other people in the room.

Many workshops cater to a particular individual or industry so you will have a good idea of the kinds of people you’re meeting. You will get the chance to meet a variety of individuals such as executives, entrepreneurs and service providers. At the same time, people of all different skill levels will be in attendance.

With workshops, you will not only educate yourself but also you will meet professionals in a unique learning environment. You will also be able to network with the speaker or company producing the workshop.

Cultural Events

Every city has its own cultural identity so you should already have a good idea of the museums, art galleries and various other attractions your area offers. Many of the museums and art galleries regularly put on wine and cheese parties to show off their exhibits.

These parties are a great chance to meet some of the other cultured professionals in your city. Similar to charity events, these gathering may be fund-raisers and are also very social and fun.

At the same time, you will have instant conversation starters with people by talking about the exhibits. During these conversations, you will get to see another side of people. At most traditional networking events, you generally do not talk about culture.

Just like charity events, many successful business professionals attend these events and have an active role on the museum or art gallery boards. If you have a general interest in helping out, talk with these individuals about getting involved.

If you do get involved, you will have the opportunity to build relationships with some very influential people in your city. Take these relationships and your involvement on the board very seriously.

Trade Shows

Many industries have large trade shows or conferences in which companies and service providers have a chance to display their products and services at tables or booths. In addition, many trade shows have educational seminars as part of the conference.

Whether you’re an exhibitor or not, these events are a great place to meet other people in your industry. Take advantage of some of the educational seminars because you will be able to network with some of the attendees before and after the presentation.

At the same time, talk with some of the exhibitors about their companies and what they have to offer. Collect business cards so you can follow up with people who interest you. If you are an exhibitor, you should also collect business cards from people who you want to contact later.

A trade show is an easy way to meet people with similar interests.

Final Thought

In order to meet a variety of people, attend both traditional and non-traditional events. Be adventurous when choosing which non-traditional events to attend not only because you will have fun but also because you will get a chance to meet some interesting people.