Lessons from My Meet-Up

Flickr CC futureshape

I organized an informal meet-up last night for local indiepreneurs. It was a great event, with a lot of meaningful discussion. However, I learned a few lessons that will help me organize an event better next time, and I hope that they’ll help you as you plan future events.

Make sure to strategically target attendees, and use your network to garner connections with targeted invitees. It’s also about quality over quantity. Last night, I was able to develop solid connections with attendees, and I value that over meeting a dozen new folks.

Ensure that your attendees know what to expect from the meeting. What’s the purpose of getting together? What do you hope to achieve? Who’s invited? I assumed that the ability to see invitees and RSVPs would be enough to prompt interest and great attendance. Let them know your agenda and guest list ahead of time.

Make personal connections. Facebook has great reach, but approaching a new connection with an invite on Facebook is not as compelling as connecting in person. Your effort will be rewarded. Again, quality, not quantity!

Follow up. Thank the venue (Thanks, Tall Pauls!), connect with the attendees, and let those who didn’t attend know they were missed (and what they missed!).

It won’t be perfect the first time! Use what you learned from a past event, edit your approach, and keep moving forward!

I hope this helps. Good luck with all of your endeavors this week!
Cheers,
Carrie

Looking for Indiepreneur Sherpas

From Flickr User El Frito

Whenever I’ve approached a new endeavor (library school, a management course, entrepreneurship), I’ve always found it helpful to find a mentor. Some of these have been informal, such as the awesome Journalism Librarian at UF or a friend who runs her own magazine in North Central Florida. I find these personal Sherpas crucial for guidance, confidence, and let’s face it, imitation. I enjoy finding inspiration from other successful entrepreneurs such as Tim Ferriss, Seth Godin, and Bethenny Frankel.

I’m hoping to connect local business newbies to seasoned business Sherpas. Are you interested in connecting with a mentor? Are you a local indiepreneur with a few years of success under your belt? Please email me at informationslinger@gmail.com.

 

What do you look for in a mentoring relationship? Know that your first attempt may not always be the best fit. Check out Inc. Magazine's tips for finding a great mentor.

More on this to come!

Carrie

A Network for Local Indiepreneurs

Looking for a network for independent entrepreneurs in North Central Florida? Wish you had support from other young business professionals?

Stay tuned for information on a new group in North Central Florida for the non-traditional business owner. These events will feature speakers, refreshments, and raffle prizes. You'll leave with connections and the support of other indiepreneurs in our area.
What kinds of topics would you like to see presented during our first few meetings?
Hit me up at informationslinger@gmail.com.
Thanks!
Carrie