Structured B2B Speed Networking
on Chicago's NorthSide

Our next event is Wed, Mar 10th, 2021
Join us for virtual B2B speed networking on Zoom.

zoom meeting illustration
While the pandemic prevents us from safely meeting in large groups, it certainly doesn't mean that we can't still network! We'll be mimicking the in-person event as much as possible by splitting into several rounds of small facilitator-led breakout rooms where you can give your pitch. Then we'll shuffle everyone up and do it again several more times.

Virtual Zoom Event
Wed, Mar 10th, 2021
11:00am to noon
cost: FREE*

register for free

* Though this event is free, if you are in a position to do so, we do ask you to consider making a donation to the Rogers Park Business Alliance or any of the partners below to help support local businesses during this challenging time.


Event Format

  • 11:00 to 11:10 - Instructions
  • 11:10 to noon - Speed Networking (we break into small breakout rooms and give elevator pitches one-by-one, then we switch rooms a few more times and do it all again in front of fresh faces)
  • noon to ??? - Open Networking (feel free to stick around to open network)


About Northside Networking

pano of networking event
NorthSide Networking was created to bring expanded business networking to the Northside Chicago neighborhoods of Edgewater, Rogers Park, Lakeview/Roscoe Village, Uptown, and West Ridge. Events are held 5 times per year and the host rotates between the five areas. The success of these events is due to the participation of community businesses and word-of-mouth of past participants sharing within their networks.





Partners


Edgewater Chamber of Commerce
Rogers Park Business Alliance
Lakeview Roscoe Village Chamber of Commerce
Business Partners: The Chamber for Uptown
West Ridge Chamber of Commerce



Sponsors



Web and digital marketing by JellyNeck Solutions
Women Belong


 

2021 Calendar

ALL EVENTS ARE VIRTUAL UNTIL LARGE GROUPS ARE ALLOWED TO SAFELY MEET IN PERSON AGAIN
  • Jan 13, 11am - Uptown
  • Mar 10, 11am - Rogers Park
  • May 12, 11am - Edgewater
  • July 14, 5pm - virtual after hours
  • Aug 11, 11am - Lakeview/Roscoe Village
  • Oct 13, 11am - West Ridge
  • Nov 10, 5pm - virtual after hours
Registration for events will be available one at a time, and found on this website. If you're interested in future events, subscribe to our list to be notified when registration is available for each one.


🎉 New for 2021
Virtual After Hours

In addition to the structured events we're known for, we're introducing a shorter, unstructured virtual gathering in 2021. Bring a beverage and kick back while we go around and briefly introduce ourselves and then have informal conversations. See below for dates.


Thanks to Northside Networking ... for another stellar speed networking event - Reno Lovison
Read Reno's full review and an example of the power of networking.



7 Tips for Effective Virtual Networking

  1. Add your contact info to the Chat box when you join.
  2. Maintain a professional image. Dress as if you were going to an in-person event--business casual is great.
  3. Be prompt! We'll start on time.
  4. Want connections? Let everyone know during your pitch (e.g. strategic partners, clients, customers).
  5. Be generous. Think of networking as "what can I do for you" rather than 'what can you do for me".
  6. Prepare multiple pitches for when you have someone from previous rounds in your group.
  7. Follow up afterward. Connect on LinkedIn and schedule a call or zoom.
  8. Have Fun! - bonus tip...just because :)

Master Zoom in 10 Steps

  1. Hold your space bar down to temporarily unmute, then let go when done talking (like a walkie talkie).
  2. Keep your light source in front of you, not behind.
  3. Position your camera so it's just above your eye level so your head is tilted slightly up.
  4. Maintain "eye contact" by looking directly into your camera when speaking.
  5. If on a phone, rotate the phone so it's horizontal (landscape).
  6. Keep the camera stationary. Don't walk around with your phone, and don't place your laptop on your lap.
  7. Remove distractions from the background or use virtual backgrounds.
  8. Reduce background sounds by wearing earbuds or a headset if possible.
  9. If you've never used Zoom on your device, visit https://zoom.us/test so you can install the software and test your video/audio before the meeting.
  10. Need further help? try this.