Bakersfield, California, is full of opportunities. There are many local business owners like yourself who want to connect with others and network with like-minded people. The business community is vast, so there are plenty of Bakersfield networking opportunities in which you can participate.
As you meet new people, you can collaborate, engage with your community, and foster growth for your business and your skills. From seasoned entrepreneurs to startup businesses, know that you are not alone. Like-minded people can help lift you up and share valuable insights and support that you need. Not sure where to get started networking? Check out these options!
Find and Attend Local Events
There are plenty of local events that you can attend for great networking opportunities. In Bakersfield, you can find events, meetups, and workshops for business professionals. Look for local organizations that might host events like these, and then get plugged into them.
A good place to start is the Chamber of Commerce. Many business entrepreneurs attend Chamber events, and you might find out about external events just by attending these. You can also find seminars and other business meetings that are open to professionals, so start looking for these events and plan to attend at least some of them.
These events are typically affordable to attend, and they’re a fantastic opportunity to meet new people in the business community. You likely won’t be able to be at every single one, but make it to at least some of them and it will make a difference. As you start showing up to events, you will find the resources to be invited to more.
Attending events also helps get your name and face out there, which will be a huge help as well.
Join Local Associations
You should consider joining business associations in the Bakersfield area. Start with the Chamber of Commerce. This association is specifically for businesses. They typically require an annual membership that is a nominal fee, and it’s well worth the investment.
You can also find other associations. Bakersfield has several professional and leadership associations, as well as the Downtown Business Association. You may also be able to find organizations or associations that are specific to your industry or niche. Many of these associations will offer events like what we mentioned above, giving you more connections and ample opportunity to network with others.
Participate in Local Events and Festivals
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Your community has tons of different events. Even if you just attend and mingle, it’s still a great way to get in front of people. That wine and cheese tasting will be a lot of fun. Those local markets where you can set up as a vendor could be good. Art walks, farmers markets, neighborhood festivals, all of these are fantastic ways to just get out there.
This may not be networking strictly with other business owners, but it still gets you out in the community. After all, it’s the community that will likely help you keep your business going, right? Participating or attending events like this shows that you care about your community and want to be a part of it. Engage with the community in meaningful ways and let it help build brand awareness while you make new connections.
Online Networking Solutions
It’s important to get out there and be engaged with other local businesses, but there are online platforms you can connect with, too. In fact, you might even be able to connect with other Bakersfield business owners through some of these.
For example, Facebook and LinkedIn are online networking platforms. Establish a presence here and discover others in your area. Find relevant groups that you can join and get involved in discussions. We do recommend you avoid being controversial. Just keep it light and professional.
Look for other forums and networking spots online that can connect you with other business people out there.
Take Advantage of Workshops
Most communities offer workshops that provide valuable training and information for business owners. One workshop might be financial management. Another might be creating a strategic plan. Look for workshops and educational classes like these that you can attend.
Check for programs and workshops through organizations, universities, and more. You can find multiple topics out there. These are great networking opportunities but they also provide you with new knowledge and skills that you can put to work in your business.
Engage with Local Directories or Resources
Explore different directories that focus on business in Bakersfield. You can probably find several directories and online forums that are relevant. Look for city directories as well as business directories. The Bakersfield Business Network is a great resource to tap into and make sure you are listed.
Don’t just make sure you are on the list, though. Take the time to discover others on the list, and try to make connections with some that may align with your business interests.
Volunteer and Engage in the Community
Another way to network and meet a variety of people is to get involved. Find local community organizations and nonprofit groups where you can join a board or committee. Maybe you can’t commit to a board position, but you can volunteer from time to time. These are all good ways to network, and they show your passion for your community.
Attend charitable events and take a stand to make a positive impact in whatever way you can. Service projects, fundraising events, local initiatives, and other similar opportunities are great for networking and building your reputation.
Build Your Network with Bakersfield Networking Opportunities
We believe strongly in networking and collaboration. At Bakersfield Business Network, we help to connect local business owners, share great information, and reach for your business goals. Get engaged and discover new ways to network with like-minded business people on your side. Join us today!
