Networking for Solo Practitioners and Freelancers

In business networking situations or any social arena, most people feel uncomfortable around me. I do this by saying what I think, and I think a lot of different things at the same time. I feel their discomfort, though, and wind up feeling just as uncomfortable. This trait makes being in business for myself challenging. 

However, the combination of loner business person and social nitwit allows me to spot group situations that are comfortable, like Spark, the Freelancers Union networking event.

Anyone who has ever had to attend any networking event knows how uncomfortable those are - even when I am not present. They seem to be the sound stage for pitch rehearsals and the training ground for slight of hand with business cards.

However, I am in business and it does get lonely and I miss having business oriented people at my fingertips, like in my corporate employment days in my past life as a computer programmer: Need marketing input for that new product you are developing? Just schedule a meeting; Can’t get that laser printer to stop spitting? Pick up the phone and specialized tech shows up within the hour.

At a large corporation, there’s a fully stocked department of every category available in most cases at a moment’s notice - and they have to do your bidding. Working for yourself as a freelancer? You’re on your own.

So, I broke down and checked out a Freelancers Union Spark event - and dragged a friend along with me. While I still made people feel uncomfortable and still felt their discomfort, I enjoyed the event, as did my friend, and found myself not just wanting to attend again, but wanting to volunteer - as a fast track to getting more comfortable, faster.

I’ve attended three events covering three very different subjects: 

1. How to give your business a growth spurt (not through gorilla marketing)
2. Pathways to financial freedom (a moven.com sponsored topic)
3. Happy Hour Networking (bingo game with prizes included)

This is my summary of the events: 

Friendly Freelancers Helping Other Freelancers

Simple, isn’t it? Logical, isn’t it? So, why is it so rare to business networking?

Spark events started in New York City, but have now expanded to various cities throughout the states. Spark is still young and growing. I’m a big believer in putting our energies into that which is “good” and I see a lot of good in freelance businesses supporting each other toward success.

Freelancers helping other freelancers - what a concept! You can join the mailing list for free.

​See you at a future Spark, or maybe you’ll be the one organizing yours in your city.