NetWorking Hollywood Style

By BETTE DAOUST, Ph.D., Southwest Bureau Chief          Bette's Bio

Is there a difference in how you network in Hollywood?  You bet there is and what a difference!  Today I had the privilege to interview Bette Jean French from the Hollywood Chamber of Commerce.  Bette Jean was in the middle of organizing a fund raiser for the Chamber for the Chamber’s foundation – the first Chamber to have their own 501 (c) (3).  And, I have also discovered that this Chamber does more than a regular mixer to encourage networking.

Although there are mixers, and mixers do not entice everyone, Hollywood style adds flavor and excitement to the mix.  These mixers are geared towards building relationships and presenting opportunities to members.  This Chamber boasts over 1000 members and is very active in helping connect them to each other.  The mixers, according to "BJ" are effective in offering a larger base of prospects in one room.  It is the place to offer new business opportunities in an atmosphere that is relaxing and not too much pressure.  It is simply a place to meet and greet and take business to the next level.

What else does this Chamber offer?

Speed Leads!  What a concept, with pre-registration allowing only 30 participants, this event is only 90 minutes long – here is what happens:

• Each registered participant is sent a script on what is to happen at the event.
• Each participant is given 3 to 5 minutes to talk based on the script (and these are timed for maximum effect).
• Extra time at the end of the event is given for further connection and doing business.

This event is wildly popular and participants get the ABC’s of effective and efficient networking.

A List! (Action, Leadership, Information, Socializing, and Team work)  A cocktail party aimed at young executives to network with other members and learn leadership skills and how to be good corporate citizens.  What a way to help the next generation of business leaders.

Demographic Events!  What does this mean?  This means pulling together groups within various industries to mingle and do business with each other.  Of course, one of the industries that come to mind is the entertainment industry and that is very true.  Other demographic meetings also happen as a result of this networking program such as Nightclub and other hip business owners as a group.

Yes, there is even more – quarterly Presidential lunches for new members, and Holiday mixers, parades and fund raisers – plus a State of Hollywood event twice a year.

So what is next for this Chamber?  It is there Holiday Mixer on December 13th where toys are collected for children.  If you are in the Hollywood area, you need to be there!  You can connect with Bette Jean French at the Hollywood Chamber by sending her an email: bj@hollywoodchamber.net or calling 323-469-8311

 

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Contact Bette at BetteD@TheNationalNetworker.com or via TNNW Blog.