I want to change how women entrepreneurs network, and one of the cornerstones of this new networking mindset is this:
When you join a networking group, don’t let “getting clients and referrals” be the first thing on your mind. Instead, think first about what collaborations you can form with your networking peers.
Collaborations are a powerful part of networking—they’re about building relationships, elevating your visibility, learning something new, and yes, eventually attracting new clients. When we collaborate, we’re creating growth and support that goes far beyond a transaction.
You might wonder, though, what collaboration could look like with another woman entrepreneur. Does it have to be formal, or can it be something more casual?
The truth is, collaboration can take many forms! Here’s a list of ways two women entrepreneurs can support and amplify each other through collaboration. As you read, pick 2-3 activities you’d like to try and think about who in your networking group would make a great partner.
And remember—have fun! Fun is part of networking, too!
Formal Collaborations
For entrepreneurs ready to dive into structured, impactful projects that elevate both brands:
- Co-host a workshop or webinar
Share your combined expertise with a larger audience. This works well for complementary skill sets and provides valuable exposure for both entrepreneurs. - Create a joint course or program
Pool your knowledge to develop a multi-week program that combines both of your strengths, offering a unique educational experience. - Write a book together
Co-authoring is a wonderful way to share your stories, expertise, and insights with the world, reaching a larger readership together. - Launch a joint podcast or video series
If you’re both comfortable with media, create a series where you discuss industry trends, share tips, and showcase lessons learned. - Create a bundle or package of services
If your offerings align, bundle them for a holistic solution clients can’t resist. - Develop a monthly or quarterly virtual event
Plan a regular virtual event—such as a mastermind or themed Q&A session—to showcase both your expertise and grow your communities. - Share a booth or space at an event
For in-person events, share costs and responsibilities, helping each other stand out. - Run a social media challenge together
Collaborate on a multi-day or month-long social media challenge that highlights both of your expertise and engages your audiences. - Offer a series of masterclasses
Create a series of classes where each of you takes the lead on topics, rotating the “spotlight” to create ongoing value. - Create a resource library together
Combine your best free resources—guides, worksheets, or checklists—into a downloadable bundle, expanding your reach. - Publish a joint case study
If you’ve collaborated before, publish a case study showcasing your work together. It shows the power of collaboration and can attract new clients.
Informal Collaborations
Perfect for entrepreneurs who want to connect and grow through smaller, supportive actions:
- Accountability partner
Meet monthly or bi-weekly to check in on goals, share challenges, and support each other’s progress. - Social media amplification
Share, comment, or like each other’s posts to boost visibility and engagement. - Cross-promote in newsletters or blogs
Include a shout-out or mention of each other’s work in newsletters or blogs to reach more people. - Monthly brainstorm sessions
Meet for coffee chats to brainstorm fresh ideas, tackle business challenges, and refine strategies. - Recommend each other to clients
When a client needs expertise that your collaborator has, refer them—it’s a simple gesture that builds trust. - Test new ideas together
Before launching a new service or product, bounce ideas off each other, or offer a “soft launch” trial for feedback. - Social media engagement pod
Where you commit to supporting each other’s content regularly. - Guest blogging or interview swaps
Feature each other in your blog, podcast, or social media, highlighting each other’s expertise. - Run a giveaway together
Pool resources for a giveaway that celebrates both of your brands and rewards your audiences. - Virtual co-working sessions
Dedicate a couple of hours to working on projects side-by-side (virtually) for productivity and accountability. - Check-in texts or voice notes
A quick “thinking of you” message, especially on tough days or after a big win, builds a strong, supportive bond. - Gift recommendations
Suggest each other’s services or products as gifts, promoting them within your circle without a formal referral. - Small acts of encouragement
A handwritten note, a book recommendation, or a small gift to celebrate a milestone can deepen connections and support.
Start Seeing Networking Through the Lens of Collaboration
You see, collaborations can be anything you and your networking colleague want them to be. I hope these 26 ideas make collaborating more accessible, inspiring, and fun. Be on the lookout for how you can implement these ideas at your next networking meeting and experience the transformational power of collaboration.