How To Know If The Marketing Event Is Right For You

Today we offer you our take on how to determine if a particular event is really worth attending and beneficial for your business.

Business networking events, as you know, aren't created equal. Some are a good fit for your unique business needs, while others are just a waste of your time.

So how do you know in advance if a particular event is exactly the kind of networking opportunity you’re looking for? Here are a few practical points to keep in mind:

Determine if the event is aligned with your goals

Your specific business goals will determine which networking events you should attend. Are you looking for new business partnerships? Trying to establish direct connections with your target customers? Or do you just want to meet new people and make your brand more visible?

You need to have well-defined goals and be clear about what you want to accomplish. If you haven’t do it yet, it’s time that you do before doing anything else. 

Find out who will be speaking or attending

One of the best draws when it comes to business conferences or summit is the featured speaker or speakers. Who wouldn't want to attend an event that features a business guru like Seth Godin, Guy Kawasaki, or other inspiring entrepreneurs like them?

The people attending the event are also equally important. Are they the kind of people you want to make connections with? You can also make a list of certain individuals that you want to meet.

Ask around

Get in touch with colleagues familiar with the event you’re considering to attend. Ask about their experience and if the event was really worth it. If you come across a new event or a networking group you haven’t heard of before, do some research on the internet to get some useful insight.

If you can’t find much information you need, either through people you know or online, it may be a sign that the event is not well-organized, maybe just a small networking organization and most probably not worth your time.

Check their track record

Some networking events have been around for a number of years. And the fact that they’re still doing it tells you a lot about them.

Your turn

How do you determine if the networking event is right for you? Share with us your thoughts in the comment section below!

If you're looking for women in business networking events in New York, you should definitely check out the Annual MACs Women's Entrepreneur Summit, which is slated for October 3, 2015.