Networking House Parties?

Good idea Jeff.  It's similar to what Keith Ferrazzi mentions in his book "Never Eat Lunch Alone."

Sounds delightful, Jeff! 

Do you envision this as a purely "social" event with no particular agenda, or will there be a structure to the activities?

Brain,

Thanks for the kudos.  I will check out that book.

Linda,

I am envisioning something that is primarily social in nature but with a business/networking theme.  Maybe "Bring Your Own Resume," and then making copies of them for each attendee.

Have you done something like this before?  I'd appreciate any recommendations you can make.

Hi Jeff -

I have not done anything like what you are proposing, but think a bit of research and planning might be a good idea --- perhaps ask some of the folks you would invite what they would like to see happen - - so there is a bit of a purpose other than "let's get together and swap resumes."

Jeff,

I have done social networking and it has worked well. I have not done it at my home, some people might feel intimated. I did it at a restaurant. If you have a restaurant that you have a good relationship with you can ask to use a private room or in a remote part of the restaurant. If you know anyone who has office space you can do it there too. 

Jeff,

I think the idea of opening your home shows extreme generosity on your part.  You would most likely need to control the number on the invite list.  That said, there's nothing like an in-home setting to make people feel comfortable and able to open up.

I agree that an informal agenda could be a good idea, perhaps starting with some getting to know each other ice-breaking activities, but not so structured that people feel like you are telling them what they should be doing every minute.  If you start out with a good group of interesting people, the event will flow and there is no doubt you will be pleased with (and rewarded by) the results.

I will reiterate the comment that "Never Eat Alone" (Keith Ferazzi) is a must read, and in your case jump straight to the chapter on dinner parties.  I was very inspired by that chapter in particular.

Good Luck!

Doug Edwards

I love the idea!  But I would have to agree with watch who you invite into your home, which I'm sure you know.  Sounds fun!

Awesome idea. Actually the informal , not so planned (some level of plan should be there) and a more friendly feel is what will set this apart. 

There has been social + Business networkng events in restaurants etc, but it always had more ofteh business agenda over shadowing the freindly fee. I am thinking meeting at some ones house will definitely make peopel feel comfortable and be who there are at the same time get to know each other better.

I support your idea all the way!  Let me know if I can help.

By the way can I bring my PJs, Beer and resume ? :)

I think it's a brilliant way to have a relaxed gathering.  Most homes are warm and welcoming and provide a great ambiance for conversatian.  If you try it, post your results!

Catherine

CatherineHilker.com

Sounds like a great idea.  I've had several events at my house and invited friends and business contacts.  Always goes well.

I like the idea.  I have never been to one I have been to networking events at businesses though.  That is a cool idea too!

I think its a great idea. Let me know if your going to set a date for the meeting.

Jim

It is a good idea, but I agree with the commnets about being careful about who you let into your home.  I run a small job search networking group - but we meet at a coffee house.  It has been a very positive experience for everyone.

We run the group very informally, but I have had the opportunity to schedule a few speakers.  We exchange resume ideas and job search websites.  But mostly bond and support one another. 

It has been a great expereince, and I encourage you to persue it.  Having it at your house is a nice idea - -but a public place will work as well.

I have done several women business owners networking get-to-gethers in my home over the last year.  The attendees are business women that I know or have met, but the attendees don't necessarily know each other.  Women have been encouraged to invite other women business owenrs that they know.  

The women at the first meeting were very enthused and wanted to do it every month.  Attendees have always been varied and business opportunities have been created.

The format has varied.  The first meeting was more informal---the conversation very lively and informative, and those who desired had the opportunity to sell their gold.  At other meetings I've had a woman share a topic they are passionate about, the attendees can learn from, and the presenter can gain future customers.  There is always an informal part to the meeting where each attendee has the opportunity to share their business and what they are looking for.  Since I live in Novi and traffic can be difficult in the evening, I do the informal networking first for those who are running behind.

The number of attendees has varied.  I ask for an RSVP for food preparation.  I have had a lot of people cancel at the last minute, forget about the meeting, and/or never RSVP.  I tend to feed people well when they come to my home, so it can get expensive if you don't control what you serve.

I think if the function is focusing on passing resume's you would need to have attendees with resumes and attendees who are looking to fill positions and this can make inviting more difficult.

Jeff,

You may consider having a euchre tournament.  You need at least 12 people but you can have more.  I personally love euchre tournaments and it would give people a reason to sit and talk to every person there.  In a euchre tournament you end up playing with and against everyone at the party.  It can take a while to finish the tournament, though.  I think it ends up taking about 4 hours for a 12 person tournament.

Please contact me if you want to know more about how the tournament works.