Three Ways to Build Better Business Relationships Through GOA

Networking and relationship-building are all about connection. Done well, networking helps you establish and nurture long-term, meaningful relationships that can open opportunities and advance your career. 
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It sounds simple—but it can be anything but, especially after two years of social distancing has built up a little rust on our skills. Associations like GOA—with networking already built in—can give you a jumpstart on new business relationships. Here’s how. 

Networking at events
Events can be an ideal place to make new connections with likeminded professionals. You’re all there for the same reason—to mingle, or to learn. With a packed events calendar, GOA offers something for everyone, including: 

• Casual events, like our Progressive Par-tee, Business After Hours or February’s Beans and Jeans Chili Cookoff. These less-buttoned-up events give members a chance to get to know each other’s lighter sides, or to bond over a shared interest. 
• Learn over Lunch events. These bring together members at various stages in their careers or in a wide variety of functional roles to learn from an executive or subject matter expert. The topic can be a great springboard for new connections or future get-togethers. 
• Virtual events, like our Multi-Chamber Progressive Networking. These bring together members from an array of different communities and chambers via videoconferencing. Breakout rooms let you get to know several members within the same event. And they’re easy to fit into a busy schedule, as you won’t have to leave the office (work or home) to realize the benefits of forging new relationships. 
• Membership Luncheons. Regular luncheon events give you access to world-renowned experts and industry standouts—as well as GOA members. Making the time for these two-hour events can help you spark new relationships that expand your network.

​View our full events calendar with all upcoming events—and then come on out.

Networking on teams and committees

Never underestimate the power of teamwork to bring people together. Our Strategic Plans Teams and Event Committees might be for you. They bring together members to work toward a common goal, which tends to be the perfect foundation for building long-lasting relationships. 

Regular meetings and planning sessions bring you together, and you can advance your leadership skills or gain new experience that can benefit you professionally and personally. 

Those looking for a business focus are a great fit for our Strategic Plans Teams, which include:

• Government Affairs Team, focused on monitoring and advocating for pro-business legislation at the state and national levels
• Marketing Team, which helps us grow visibility and attract new members to GOA
• Membership Team, which assists the Membership Department with its annual goals and strategic planning
• Events and Program Team, whose members play a role in developing and running our wide range of events and programs

If you’re more an events person, you might consider joining one of our Events Committees, which include the Wine & Beer Tasting Committee, the Business Expo Committee, the Golf Outing Committee, and the Young Professionals Community.

Networking in GONE Groups

GONE stands for Greater O’Hare Networking Executives. Our dedicated GONE groups provide a supportive network for member businesses to increase visibility, generate and share referrals, brainstorm new business ideas and…yes, build long-term relationships. It’s easier when you have a shared interest and are actively collaborating toward the greater good. 
Groups meet weekly with a business-building focus. GOA currently has three GONE groups. To learn more and to join, contact our office at (630) 773-2944 or info@thegoa.com. 

Networking really is the key to success in business at every stage in your career. It’s easier, though, when you have ready-made common ground. We can help you make networking and relationship-building easier through membership.