For younger professionals interested in networking with others,
that first step
– getting a foot in the door – often can be the most
difficult.
For younger professionals interested in networking with others, that first step – getting a foot in the door – often can be the most difficult.
But the San Benito County Chamber of Commerce wants to ease that transition for young professionals – while also giving others in the community a chance to connect with those people – by expanding its relatively new Young Professionals Group. The 2010 kick-off for the group is scheduled for 5:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. Thursday at Paine’s Restaurant, 421 East St. It is a free informational gathering, but will include entertainment and music, along with a raffle and no-host bar.
The chamber launched the group last year and had some gatherings, but plans to do a lot more in 2010, said Jessica French, the chamber’s president. The chamber maintains an array of networking and socializing avenues. This one stands out in that it attracts a particular demographic – though there is no age limit – while encouraging younger professionals locally to get involved and find out the benefits of such activities.
“It is to attract and retain young professionals in and around the area, in fostering the next generation of leaders,” French said. “We want to connect people who are either looking for a job, looking to increase their client base, and even people who are just wanting to give back to the community.”
Those interested in taking part will have plenty of opportunities to network throughout the year with the San Benito County Young Professionals Group. Each quarter of the year, there will be night meetings such as networking dinners or evening socials. Also once per quarter, the group will host coffee and conversation morning events, which the chamber expects to sometimes include informational discussions on such topics as dressing for success or interviewing skills, French said.
She also mentioned how the Young Professionals Group plans to hold two fundraisers a year to support local nonprofits and that twice annually members will take trips to places such as wineries for tasting, or sporting events.
“Other communities have done it. Other chambers have done it. They seem to work well,” French said.
As for networking in general?
“It’s really important because one of the best ways to promote your business is word of mouth,” she said.
Mayor Victor Gomez, a chamber board member and local business owner, said it’s a great idea and he hopes it “continues to stick.”
“I think it’s a good thing because young professionals and business owners pretty much bring a different perspective to what’s going on,” Gomez said.
For more information on the group, call French at (831) 637-5315 or go to www.youngprosofsbc.com.
