Finding the right networking group is like finding the perfect pair of shoes. It should feel good, support you on your journey, and make you want to show up again and again. And just like shoes, there are plenty of networking groups out there, but not all are the right fit for you.
That’s why I want to share a few tried-and-true ways to discover the group that aligns with your energy, your goals, and your business. Because you deserve a networking community that helps you grow and shine.
How to Search for the Right Networking Group
Start With a Google Search (But Make It Specific)
A quick Google search can uncover a treasure trove of networking opportunities. Try using phrases like “women’s networking group + [your city]” or “virtual entrepreneur networking group.”
Sites like Meetup and Eventbrite are also great places to look for both local and virtual events. Think of this as casting your initial net: You’re gathering options, not committing yet.
Tap Into Your Community
Sometimes, the best recommendations come from the women who already know you. Ask your entrepreneurial friends where they network. Post in local Facebook groups or industry-specific communities. A warm referral often leads to the most aligned connections—those hidden gems that aren’t always easy to find with a search engine.
What to Do Once You’ve Found a Group to Check Out
Know Your Networking Goals
It’s easy to join a group because someone told you to or because it “sounds good,” but clarity is key. Are you looking for visibility? Community? Referrals? A space to practice public speaking? The right networking group supports your goals, not just theirs.
Attend as a Guest and Listen to Your Gut
Most networking groups allow you to attend as a guest once (sometimes more). Take full advantage of this! Notice how the meeting feels. Were the members warm and welcoming? Did the structure support authentic conversation, or did it feel rigid or chaotic? Trust your intuition here. If you felt energized afterward, that’s a sign you’re on the right track.
Check for Alignment
This is where you go deeper. Do the group’s values reflect yours? Is it collaborative or competitive? Do they prioritize referrals, education, sisterhood, or something else? If you’re a heart-centered entrepreneur who values connection over competition, then you’ll want a networking group that echoes that energy. Alignment matters.
Don’t Be Afraid to Say No
Not every group is going to be the right fit, and that’s okay. You are not obligated to stay somewhere that doesn’t feel aligned.
You deserve to network in spaces where you feel uplifted, empowered, and appreciated.
Final Thoughts
Your networking group should feel like home—a place where you can be yourself, share your brilliance, and receive the same in return. Listen to your intuition and know the right networking group is out there for you!