Have you ever attended a Chamber of Commerce event, grabbed a cup of coffee, exchanged a few business cards, and headed back to the office wondering if it was worth your time?

You are not alone! We have all been there. Our calendars are packed, our to-do lists keep growing, and finding time to network can feel like one more thing competing for our attention.

But here is my Jimmy Tip: Do not just show up. Show up with a purpose!

Chamber events are more than opportunities to enjoy breakfast, listen to a speaker, or meet a few new faces. They are opportunities to build relationships, discover resources, exchange ideas, and create connections that can lead to real business growth. The key is what you do when you walk through the door.

Be Present, Not Just in Attendance

Let’s face it. It is easy to attend an event physically while mentally checking off everything waiting for us back at the office. We glance at our phones, stick with people we already know, and leave without making a meaningful connection.

Instead, challenge yourself to step outside your comfort zone.

Introduce yourself to someone new. Ask questions. Listen to what other business owners are doing. If there is a speaker or panel discussion, participate by asking a thoughtful question. If you see someone standing alone, invite them into the conversation.

You never know where one conversation might lead. A casual introduction could become a referral partner, a new customer, a mentor, or even a friendship.

Remember, networking is not about how many people you meet. It is about how many relationships you begin building.

Your Personal Development Tip: Set a Participation Goal

Before attending your next Chamber event, set one simple, measurable goal.

Maybe you will introduce yourself to three people you have not met. Perhaps you will ask one meaningful question, learn about another member’s business, or volunteer to help at an upcoming event.

The goal is not to work the room like a politician running for office. It is to become more comfortable connecting with people and showing genuine interest in their stories.

And here is an important reminder: Be curious, not impressive. You do not have to have the perfect elevator pitch or deliver a sales presentation every time someone asks what you do. Sometimes, the best way to make a lasting impression is to ask a great question and listen to the answer.

Your Business Development Tip: Follow Up!

The real value of networking often begins after the event ends.

Did you meet someone whose business complements yours? Send a quick email or LinkedIn message. Did someone mention a challenge you might be able to help solve? Offer a useful resource or schedule a follow-up conversation. Did you promise to make an introduction? Make it happen!

Within 24 to 48 hours, follow up with the people you connected with. Personalize your message by mentioning something you discussed. That small gesture demonstrates that you were listening and that the relationship matters.

Then, look for ways to stay connected. Invite someone to coffee, attend their next event, or introduce them to another Chamber member who could be a valuable connection.

Business development is not always about finding your next customer. Sometimes, it is about becoming a trusted resource for someone else. When you consistently help others succeed, you build a reputation that can bring opportunities your way.

Your Call to Action: Make Your Next Event Count!

At your next Des Moines Chamber of Commerce event, do not just attend—participate!

Set a goal, meet someone new, ask a question, and follow up afterward. Get involved in a committee, volunteer at an event, or explore a program that connects you with other professionals.

The Chamber provides the room, the resources, and the opportunities. You bring the curiosity, the conversation, and the commitment.

Because at the end of the day, the value of your membership is not measured by how many events you attend. It is measured by the relationships you build, the knowledge you gain, and the opportunities you create.

Now, go make a connection! And remember, your next great business opportunity might be sitting right across the breakfast table.

Cheers,

Jimmy