Introduction
Hello, fabulous readers! Whether you’re an entrepreneur, executive, or a savvy businesswoman looking to make a change, this piece is for you. Networking does more than just transfer a business card from one hand to another; it builds lasting relationships, fosters personal growth, and opens doors you didn’t even know existed. Today, we’re not just talking about any networking groups—we’re highlighting the top ones that offer the best platforms for women who mean business. Ready to take notes? Grab a cup of tea and let’s get into it.
1. Ellevate Network
Ellevate Network stands as one of the best women’s networking groups. It supports women at all career stages. With events, resources, and a supportive community, Ellevate empowers women to realize their goals.
Why Ellevate?
Diverse membership: Women from various industries and backgrounds offer diverse perspectives. You’re bound to find someone who has walked a mile in your shoes.
Quality events: The networking events are well-structured, offering a good mix of learning and connecting.
Mentoring opportunities: Tap into the wisdom of seasoned professionals to guide you.
Ellevate Summit
One Ellevate event, the Mobilize Women Summit, hosts influential speakers and panels. Topics range from leadership strategies to equity and inclusion. This event helps expand your knowledge and network.
2. Lean In Circles
Based on Sheryl Sandberg’s work, Lean In Circles comprise small groups of women. These groups meet regularly to support each other’s goals. This grassroots movement has become a top global organization for women.
Why Lean In?
Action-oriented: These groups focus on setting and achieving goals, not idle talk. Meetings have clear agendas, sharing stories and strategies.
Accessibility: Find or start a circle anywhere. Online meetings are also available.
Support systems: Form bonds that go beyond professional networking, diving deep into personal growth.
Lean In Experience
For example, one circle member shared how setting boundaries at work enhanced her productivity and wellbeing. Another learned negotiation skills that led to a significant pay raise.
3. National Association of Women Business Owners (NAWBO)
NAWBO stands out as a premier business club for women entrepreneurs. It fosters growth through mentoring, advocacy, and development programs.
Why NAWBO?
Advocacy: NAWBO goes beyond networking. It actively lobbies for policies aiding women entrepreneurs.
Resources: Access a wealth of information, from business startup guides to scaling techniques.
Community: Join a national community of like-minded entrepreneurs. They understand the unique challenges you face.
NAWBO Chapters
Local NAWBO chapters host regular events. These range from business strategy workshops to social gatherings. By attending, you can build relationships with local business leaders.
4. The Wing
The Wing isn’t just a coworking space; it’s one of the leading women’s empowerment networks. It has locations in major cities and offers spaces for working, networking, and learning.
Why The Wing?
Physical space: Work from beautifully designed spaces tailored for women.
Events and workshops: Regularly scheduled events fuel both your career and personal growth. Topics may include financial planning, public speaking, or wellness.
Community: An uplifting community both online and offline. Here, many women find mentors and lifelong friends.
Wing Member Experience
For instance, one Wing member described her experience: “The Wing’s events taught me to pitch my startup confidently. The support from fellow members was invaluable.”
5. Key Women’s Leadership Forum
The Key Women’s Leadership Forum brings senior women executives together. It focuses on enhancing leadership skills.
Why Key Women’s Leadership Forum?
Tailored for executives: Designed specifically for senior women leaders.
Deep-dive workshops: Attend in-depth sessions that tackle real leadership challenges. These workshops cover strategic planning, crisis management, and team leadership.
Networking with peers: Connect with other high-level executives. Expand your professional horizons.
Forum Member Insight
One forum member shared how a workshop on conflict resolution improved her leadership approach. Another member spoke about the peer support she received during a company merger.
6. Bizwomen: Mentoring Monday
Bizwomen’s Mentoring Monday is an annual event. It brings together thousands of women for speed coaching with influential leaders.
Why Mentoring Monday?
Unique format: The speed mentoring format allows you to gain insights from several mentors in one session.
Wide reach: Events take place in multiple cities, making it accessible to many women.
Mentoring Monday Experience
During one session, a participant received career-changing advice from multiple mentors. The rapid-fire format fostered quick, impactful conversations.
7. Women’s Business Enterprise National Council (WBENC)
WBENC is a leading certifier of women-owned businesses in the U.S. It also offers valuable networking opportunities through events and webinars.
Why WBENC?
Certification: Helps women-owned businesses get certified. This certification can open doors to corporate and government contracts.
Events: Conferences and summits offer substantial networking opportunities. These include sessions on entrepreneurship, leadership, and supplier diversity.
Resources: Access comprehensive resources to help grow your business.
WBENC Conference
For instance, WBENC’s annual conference brings together corporate executives and women business owners. This event is a prime opportunity for networking and partnership.
8. 2020 Women on Boards
2020 Women on Boards aims to increase the percentage of women on corporate boards. It does so through education and collaboration. This organization is a powerful network for executive women.
Why 2020 Women on Boards?
Focus on leadership: Unique focus on board roles and governance. Workshops cover how to get on a board and excel in the role.
Networking: Connect with like-minded women aspiring to or already in board roles. These connections can lead to board opportunities.
Board Member Journey
One member shared how attending a 2020 WOB event equipped her with the knowledge to secure a position on a nonprofit board. The network she built there continues to support her career.
9. Women Presidents’ Organization (WPO)
WPO is an international membership organization. It’s for women presidents, CEOs, and managing directors of multimillion-dollar companies.
Why WPO?
Exclusive peer networks: Connect with women leading substantial enterprises.
Support and development: Forums allow for the exchange of strategies and experiences.
Global reach: Benefit from both local and international chapters.
WPO Collaboration
A WPO member described how sharing her business challenges with peers led to innovative solutions. Another member found a strategic partner through WPO networks.
10. SheEO
SheEO invests in women entrepreneurs through radical generosity. Activators (donors) fund zero-interest loans to women-led ventures.
Why SheEO?
Innovative funding: Unique model supports women entrepreneurs.
Community of Activators: Be part of a community committed to changing the world.
Focus on impact: Support businesses working on social good.
SheEO Success Story
For example, one SheEO venture focuses on sustainable fashion. The support from SheEO’s community helped the venture scale its operations and impact.
Conclusion
Joining a women’s networking group can significantly impact your career. Whether seeking mentorship, resources, or a community of like-minded professionals, these top 10 groups offer valuable opportunities. Engage actively within these networks. Participate in events and leverage the available resources. Your professional world will expand in ways you never imagined. Happy networking!
Sources :
Herring, C. (2009). Does Diversity Pay?: Race, Gender, and the Business Case for Diversity. American Sociological Review.
Ibarra, H., Carter, N.M., & Silva, C. (2010). Why Men Still Get More Promotions Than Women. Harvard Business Review.
Sandberg, S. (2013). Lean In: Women, Work, and the Will to Lead. Knopf.
