It took us many months to get the LIKE formula just right! Here are our tips on how to create your own successful LIKE networking group:

 

Getting started

• The group should be free to join, and open to everyone
• Keep it informal - creating too much administrative work for yourself will make it seem much less fun!
• Decide how often you want to hold meet-ups - making a regular date like the last Thursday of the month helps you and attendees plan your diaries in advance
• Don't start too early (so attendees can get there easily after work) and don't finish too late (so attendees can get home at a decent time)
• Keep the format flexible and evolve in response to what members want -  group discussions, guest speakers, visits to external events
• Find a pub with a function room, preferably one you can use for free. Arrange with the pub for them to provide a sit-down dinner or a buffet. Food is really important in helping to create a friendly atmosphere and so that people don't have to leave too early because they're hungry!
• Don't overlook the smaller details in the room which help create a comfortable atmosphere: lighting (not too bright), temperature, fresh air, space for circulating

Your first meet-up

• It's a good idea to get a well-known speaker for your first meeting to create interest and act as a draw
• Use free web 2.0 tools such as LinkedIN, Twitter, and free blog software to promote and coordinate the group. People book to attend LIKE by leaving a message on a LinkedIN discussion. We close the comments feature once we've reached maximum capacity.
• Get some cheap business cards printed from Moo to promote the group to people you meet
• Nominate someone naturally bubbly to act as the meeter-and-greeter to help everyone feel welcome and settle in quickly
• Send a reminder to attendees the day before the meet-up
• Relax and enjoy the event - try to get some rest beforehand so you're full of energy and enthusiasm on the night
• Use post-event publicity to generate more interest - post a report of each event on your website or blog
• Encourage everyone to blog and twitter about the events, and publicise their blog posts

Growing the group

• Encourage everyone to contribute whether as speakers, discussion panel members, asking questions during a group discussion, or suggesting topics
• Keep asking members for informal feedback on what they're enjoying about the events and what could be improved

 

Read Virginia's article on FUMSI for more tips on how to start a networking group.