Chamber of Commerce
Join your Chamber of Commerce. It’s the one place where you can be sure you’ll meet the most active people in your community. Most chambers have leads groups to help you gain personal introductions to potential clients. Be sure to join the groups and have coffee meetings with each of the members to build a stronger understanding of what you each are looking for.
When you become a chamber ambassador or a member of the welcoming committee, you’ll gain high visibility. Try to be the first one at the door to welcome new members to the chamber events. At every function, you will wear a ribbon or button that distinguishes you as an ambassador. You’ll greet guests and be able to introduce them to other members which will be more memorable for the guest.
Chambers are not famous for generating business for their members, but when you use the system well, you’ll develop enough business to make it worth your while. Chambers provide a great sense of belonging. I’m still friends with several of the people I met twenty years ago at chamber functions.