I’ve been in Atlanta for over 15 years. I will never claim this place as my home I am from Charleston, SC and proud of it but while I am here I had to learn how to network. I’m late into the networking game because I didn’t really start getting out until my late 30’s but I will tell you how I move around and why everyone doesn’t have to be your bestie around here. Her is how to network in Atlanta from a transplant.
I always see people on threads asking how to make friends in Atlanta. Some of it is clickbait they are not really looking for friends, they just want people to comment on their post. When networking though I want you to understand that you may not find your bestie. Don’t go into this thinking that…go in with an open mind to meet people from all walks of life and meet people where they are. Don’t force anything, don’t ask for anything, and don’t put yourself out here like you’re desperate Betty or something. I find that most of my besties don’t come from events, but I have found some great people that I have built relationships with. We aren’t best friends, but if they need something or I need something, they are willing to point me in the right direction.
I’m an introvert, so let me start with that. It is hard for me to meet people and put myself out here. Even as a photographer, it’s been difficult. I have to take things in dosages and not all at one time. Pace myself when networking in Atlanta, also making sure that you don’t get scammed (a lot of scammers around). My goal is to go to 3 events a month. That’s not hard to do, and you can find some great events in and around Atlanta. To find these events, follow certain creators in and around Atlanta. Myleik gives some great insight on events. Eventbrite is another site that gives great local events to attend. Atlanta Bucketlist also gives great events (there is another one of the same name. Access Atl is another great one. Or you can use AI to Google events happening in Atlanta, tailored to what you may want to do.
Now, let’s talk about some great ways to network that have worked for me
- If you own a business, join your local chamber of commerce. It’s a great way to be involved with others right where you live.
- Join various groups. I have joined two of them that have nothing to do with my business, but it gets me out of the house twice a month. Books and Bordeaux is one of them, where you can read a book and become a part of it with themes and open discussions. The other group is a social club called GRLS Atlanta. A group dedicated to black women who want to socialize with each other.
- Join local non-profits. You will meet people that you don’t readily meet and that will put you into a different space, especially if it’s a cause that you love.
- Social media. I know it gets a bad rep, but hear me out…Threads is the place to be. I think it’s a great way to network with people everywhere and you can jump into conversations. It’s perfect for the introvert who doesn’t want to put in a lot of work but still need to network for the business or brand.
- A great tip that my friend does is she shows up near conferences and eats at bars and restaurants (she doesn’t attend them she just shows up near them) She sits at the bar for the most part and strikes up conversations with others. She is bold, but it’s a great way to network. She has found some great tips and info from just doing that.
However you decide to show up make a plan to get out of the house at least twice a month and do something. There are many things to do in Atlanta you just have to find the right one. Tip on the scam thing…verify where the event is before you pay your money and do your research on who is hosting. See what people say about them in their comments. Make sure you don’t go by followers because sometimes it’s paid for and sometimes they don’t really give you as much info.
How do you network in Atlanta?
