An Exhaustive List of How and Where to Find In-Person and Virtual Networking Events

We know networking is important, but it can be overwhelming to decide what events you should attend. Or, maybe you’re not even sure how to find networking events to attend in the first place.

To help you discover new places to meet great people, here’s an exhaustive list of different ways you can discover networking events worth attending – whether virtually or in-person.

As the world recovers from the COVID-19 pandemic, expect events to come back slowly but surely. In the meantime, consider getting into the habit of attending both virtual and in-person programming based on your comfort level.

When it comes to virtual events, look for different styles and formats. From large on-demand webinars with an audience chat only to small workshops where everyone’s camera is on, there is always value to be gained.

The resources included here range from websites that post events to using social media to connect and discover events.

And remember, you can meet interesting people in a lot of different ways — and sometimes that means heading to a casual drink and draw or virtual gallery opening — in addition to formal networking and recruitment events.

Let’s get to networking:

• Eventbrite.com
• Meetup.com
• Facebook Events
• College and University events
• Sign up for emails from cultural hubs like museums and theaters
• Follow companies you want to work for on LinkedIn, Twitter, and other social media channels
• Your college alumni center and alumni from your college
• Follow people you’ve met at events on social media
• Ask people from your local religious group or organization
• Ask your friends through a Facebook Post
• Join and post in Facebook Groups
• Join Slack groups
• Ask your professors
• LinkedIn Groups
• Local bookstores for author signings and book clubs
• Online communities led by brands and services relevant to your industry
• Local chapters of professional / industry organizations
• Reach out to your mentors to see what events they attend
• Check out events held in co-working spaces
• Follow and sign up for emails from media sites you enjoy, they often host events
• Sign up for local event guides like Gary’s Guide and Do312
• Start your own event / plan your own gathering!

Do you have other strategies for finding networking events? Please share in the comments!