Size matters.
Particularly the size of your network.
Not the wireless kind, like a TV commercial. These days, the size of your business network can make all the economic difference in the world.
Fine Networking is a loose group. For 16 years it’s provided peer support, training, client referrals and networking opportunities, all in a low-key, friendly atmosphere.
Michele Albano, owner of Michele's Pies, spoke to Fine Networking about starting a new business. She's flanked by meeting coordinators Ed Fitzgerald and Bette Lynn Paez.
Meetings are held the 3rd Thursday of each month, from 9-11 a.m. at the Westport Library or Westport Country Playhouse. They begin with 30-second elevator speeches from each attendee. Then there’s a guest speaker, followed by networking time.
Tomorrow’s meeting (at the library) features Jan Wallen, author of Mastering LinkedIn in 7 Days or Less. Previous speakers have discussed social networking; surviving in a recession; utilizing library reference resources, and marketing.
Fitzgerald is Exhibit A for the importance of networking. A speaker he invited soon became a regular member. After opening a new business, the man outsourced some work to Fitzgerald.
For all its good work, Fine Networking has kept a low profile. That may be changing, thanks to a new blog, outreach efforts — and of course the economy.
As for the somewhat generic name: It’s not a value judgment. Fine Networking honors its founders: Former IBMers Networking for Entrepreneurship.
(For more information, call Ed Fitzgerald at 203-227-8424, or email ed.fitzgerald@coldwellbankermoves.com)
