Networking Success Strategy: Why You Should Join a Women's Business Networking Group

I remember one Mother's Day, my brother and I asked my mom, "why isn't there a Kids Day?" She told us, "Every day is kids day." I think of that story whenever I hear someone wondering why there are still business clubs and networking groups for women. While there is no doubt incredible progress for women in business, there are some ways in which "every day is business men's day."

Here's why I think business to business networking groups for women are a great idea for every female business owner, sales person or any woman who wants to develop personally and professionally. First, I don't agree with women only groups. Women at work complained too long, for too many years about men-only groups for us to turn around and do the same thing. But there are many advantages and reasons for having a group that is targeted and designed by and for women.

Women's business groups give women better opportunities to take leadership positions. In general business clubs, there may be long-term or more experienced men and older business people who have the confidence and experience to snap up leadership positions. In a women's group, it is easier for young women and those who are new to business to be encouraged to take these opportunities.

These groups also give women the opportunity to learn about and discuss topics that are unique to them. You would never see a Rotary Club inviting a woman doctor to talk about menopause or reproductive health issues. Women in business are more likely to want to hear about health issues, quality of life discussions and other topics that aren't specifically about business. They understand that these issues are vital to being able to focus on business they way they need to.

Finally, and I think most importantly, is that women's business organizations give women a special opportunity to bond, network and build powerful relationships with other women. Women need to be encouraged to help each other. Right now, it is a shameful trend in popular culture to show women as being enemies. The so-called "friends" in the Real Housewives series are held up as examples of how women handle their relationships. It's disgraceful. Every city needs a women's group to serve as an example of professional, mature women in business who are leaders in their community and worthy trusted friends of each other.

As a business woman who has benefited tremendously from 10 years of membership in a women's networking group, I encourage you to look for one in your community, join it, get your female co-workers to join, and bring your daughters. Spread the positive message and influence of the value of spending time with positive and supportive women in business.