I’m looking for a few good entrepreneurs…
December 12, 2008 by ShannonCherry
Filed under Business
For more than a couple of years, I have been looking for a networking/mastermind group of entrepreneurs. You know, people you might do business with – or help you find business, but more importantly, people who understand and can give you some advice and support once in a while.
Heck, it’s lonely being a solo entrepreneur!
I’ve tried BNI and even a local networking group, but both really didn’t have entrepreneurs in mind.
I’ve checked on Meetups, but nothing seems like it fits right.
You see, I’m an entrepreneur that works from my home. Many small business owners don’t get me. I think part of it is that they think I need a traditional office in order to be serious about my work.
And I understand why. I’ve met many people who have businesses from their home, and at least around my parts, they aren’t very serious about their businesses.
So what’s a gal to do? Perhaps create her own group?
If you’re having the same kind of issues finding a networking/mastermind group, let me know by leaving a comment and perhaps it’s time that we join forces.
Image credit: JMichaelSullivan, on Flickr
Shannon: I know what you mean. I just left my very well-paying job to work at home full-time. It’s lonely and scary. But I am SERIOUS about making it. I’ve hired a coach, but he’s just helping me with branding. I would love someone to talk with. There are so many ways to connect via the Internet, like Skype, etc.
I have both online and offline business…I am solely now working on the online bus…I would like to find a diverse group …so I would be in!
Hi there. I would be interested, as well. I am always up for networking and comparing notes. My web dev. business is a “second job” right now but the ultimate plan is to take it full time.
Hey Shannon,
If you’re looking to network with entrepreneurs you should check out a new online networking community for entrepreneurs and small business, RedWire.
RedWire is a place for you to connect with other entrepreneurs for collaborative knowledge sharing. The website is a tool to expand your contacts and draw upon a greater pool of resources.
You can check out the site at http://www.redwirenation.com – hope to see you there!
Cheers,
Erin
A few months ago, I started a networking group named one-woman band, specifically for us nearly-solo female entrepreneurs (there are thousands and thousands of us!) to share resources, give each other support, bounce ideas around. It’s open enrollment – just head for http://onewoman.ning.com – and I hope we see you and your compatriots there!
Hang in there for just a short while yet Shannon – I’m finishing the details to put together the PERFECT online networking venture that will mirror my offline netweaving/mastermind/business-building/support network – RUN Intl. I’m hoping to launch Jan or Feb 2009! Hope you will be interested – focused on entrepreneurs and small businesses that want to learn and grow together and build their business by building relationships and netweaving! Please let me know if you are interested!
Carol Deckert
Networking Coach
Carol@runlancaster.com
Shannon,
Know what you mean. We started Social Matchbox (www.socialmatchbox.com) because we had the same thought. Now local entrepreneurs come and talk about what they’re doing and some even demo what they’re doing. If you are interested in hosting one where you are let me know.
Bob
SocialMatchbox.com
I’d be interested. I went to a local chamber of commerce meeting recently just for kicks. Needless to say, there wasn’t really anybody there who got me.
Hi Shannon,
I don’t have an online network to share with you, but I just wanted to say, I know exactly what you are talking about. I actually created a networking group for small biz owners and entrepreneurs. The majority happy to be solopreneurs and/or people who work from home. I happen to be both! So I get it.
I’ve been to lots of groups, but I am active in few. For me, its all about the right fit, and a lot of groups just aren’t.
Hope you find what you are looking for!
– Alaia (just took over at EverydayNetworker.com)
Shannon,
have you tried MomMasterminds.com? It is not a free community but you do get to connect with serious business women who share valuable information and always support. You can try for free for 9 days before joining.
I also have recently started a social networking site for small businesses that allows sharing of ideas and free advice from experts on a broad range of business subjects: http://www.bizhuddle.com
We are new so there isn’t a lot of content yet but I would appreciate any feedback on our direction.
I am game for it. I am based in Bangalore & sell out of http://www.sunrise52.com
I’m totally interested. I belonged to a great mastermind group for awhile but its members kind of lost steam and parted ways. I’d love to join a new one, and we seem to share similar career paths :)
Hi, I am an aspring entrepreneur as well. If anyone is starting a support group via skype or conference call please let me know.