As a business professional, I can tell you from personal experience that being part of a networking group (being part of something larger than yourself) can bring great success to your business. The right networking group can help you find new contacts, promote and raise awareness of your business. Being a business owner can have great financial rewards, but at times it can lonely and frustrating. Networking groups give you access to support and advice. You’ll be inspired by others which will help keep your own motivation levels up.
Here are a couple of networking groups that you can join here in Houston. Some of them have a small yearly fee, but it is a small investment when you compare the business relationships that will emerge from membership.
Houston Black Professionals
Houston Black Professionals (HBP) is a business and professional networking group for black professionals. They seek to add individuals to their network that have a mutual interest in social/business networking, community involvement, and professional development. Their mission is to advance business practices, organize structured and supportive networking systems, and increase occupational and business objectives for black people.
Although the group is open to all industries, it is primarily intended for professionals who are mature, open-minded, educated and living life with a sense of purpose.
Members: 700+
Next Meeting: Thursday, Jan. 15, 2015 @ 6pm
Meetup:
http://www.meetup.com/societyofblackprofessionals/about/
Facebook:
https://www.facebook.com/houstonblackprofessionals
Houson 30+ Sistahood Social Group
If you're a 30+ woman of color and would like to meet new people for socializing, networking and exploring new places, or just like getting out, this group is for you. Tired of working hard every day, taking care of the family and not rewarding yourself with some fun and relaxation? The goal of this group is to meet other strong, positive, independent, outgoing and like-minded, women of color in your community in order to gain new, fulfilling friendships.
There are all kinds of fun things to do in Houston, from outdoor festivals, cultural events, girls night out or in, Spas, a million restaurants to try, movies, brunches, theater, live music, wine-tasting, traveling and so on. The possibilities are endless. This group is for anyone who wants to build a network of girlfriends. Bring your ideas for fun with you. Looking forward to meeting each of you. A group is only as great and dynamic as its members.
Members 900+
Next Meeting: Wine Making Party – Friday, Jan. 16
Meetup:
http://www.meetup.com/women-643/
The Young Black Professionals New to Houston
"The Young Black Professionals New to Houston Experience", was founded on September 5, 2011 and within two years the group's membership has grown tremendously, and now comprises of nearly 2000 new young black Houston professionals, solidifying itself as one of the most influential organizations targeted toward African Americans in Houston. The members come from all over the world and different walks of life, from as close as Dallas reaching as far as Africa, Europe and Asia, from recent college graduates looking for work to teachers, doctors, lawyers and engineers established in their careers. The mission of “YBP New to Houston Experience” is to help young black professionals become acclimated in the fourth largest city in the country, which they now call home by bridging the gap between the young professional and the thriving city. Most members have come to Houston without family or friends, and the organization gives them the chance to meetlike-minded individuals and provides them an opportunity to build lasting friendships while exploring Houston together.
Members: 2000+
Meetup:
http://www.meetup.com/Young-Black-Professionals-New-To-Houston/
Website:
http://www.ybpnewtohouston.org
Black Girls Rock Houston
This group is intended for all African American women single, married, and divorced between the ages of 28-50. If you are a newcomer to the city or have lived here all your life and just want to meet some friends that share your same common interest. In Black Girls Rock Houston, we will participate in many different fun activities such as: shopping, dining, wine tasting, happy hours, traveling, private parties, bowling, movies, skating, and occasional club venues.
Members: 1500+
Next Meeting:
Martini's Manicures and Massages – Jan. 07, 2015
Meetup: http://www.meetup.com/Black-Girls-Rock-Houston/