Issue link: https://read.dmtmag.com/i/43043
work up the ladder Ready, set, Network! While industry-specific networking groups are valuable, find a variety of networking groups to help you build relationships across industries locally The Business Forum An organization of nearly 100 profes- sional women meets the first Thursday of each month for networking and educational opportunities. Visit thebusinessforum.org. Dane Buy Local Events Member breakfasts and other social events offer a way to connect with local business owners for networking and support. Visit danebuylocal.com. Madison Magnet With an emphasis on bringing together young professionals, this group's more than 500 members meet for social events, workshops, public service days and more. Visit madisonmagnet.org Q A E& xpert 34 BRAVA Magazine September 2011 The Moxie Exchange Monthly Estrogen Power Happy Hours allow Madison women to learn from business leaders and each other. Visit moxieexchange.com. Building your career by building relationships By Ashley Finke Phenomenal Women of Wisconsin Through monthly meetings, the profes- sional members of this group look for ways to support each other's business while giving back to the community. Visit phenomenalwomenofwi.com. As the local executive for Madison's Moxie Exchange, a networking group for women, Dana Zurbuchen believes in the value of networking. And as a marketing consultant, public speaker and certified professional coach, she knows exactly how to make it work. Some people like to say they don't find networking valuable. Are there certain kinds of professionals networking is better for? Ultimately we all do business with people, so it's important to know the people behind the product or service you're getting. Whether you sell a product or deliver a service, and regardless of the industry, I think it's important to network not only for business growth and professional development, but to manage your reputation as well. When you attend a networking event, how do you get the most out of it? Be really active. Don't wait for somebody to come up and talk with you—go out and make a connection with somebody new. Also, [see it as an opportunity for more than] a busi- ness card exchange. Real networking is where you get to know people and build long-term relationships. At networking events, find two to three people you would like to learn more about (make sure you know who they are, trust their values and want to be associated with them), then see if you want to take that networking or business relationship further by con- tinuing to connect with them or helping each other in business. When you meet someone at a networking event, how much information should you divulge? Trust your gut. Pick justa few people you want to plan a longer meeting with. I never go to an event and give everybody my card. That's like saying when you're single, 'I'll take any boy- friend I can find.' Your goal should be to set more meetings, but only with the right people. Team Women Focusing on women business owners, attendees meet every other Wednesday to share resources and offer support. Visit teamwomeninc.com. Tempo Madison Composed of about 250 women in executive and leadership positions, this invitation-only, peer-to-peer organiza- tion connects female leaders from vari- ous fields. Visit tempomadison.org. Wisconsin Women Entrepre- neurs—South Central, Inc. Dedicated to fostering the growth and stability of local women-owned businesses, members meet to network, offer support and find educational op- portunities. Visit nawbomadison.org. Working Moms' Networking Group Whether you're a mom working full time in the office or part time from home, this group presents a way to network with other working moms, make business connections and share tips for balancing it all. Visit happybambino.com.