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Ah, networking. Few words provoke such different emotional results. For some, it’s an exciting way to meet new contacts, clients, customers and friends. To others an uncomfortable—but necessary—part of the workday grind. But networking is a crucial part of any career or business venture and thanks to dedicated organizations like the IN TEAM, it’s as easy as attending the South Sound Business Expo on Thursday, May 3.

IN TEAM South Sound Business Expo 1
Thursday, May 3 is the second annual South Sound Business Expo hosted by the IN TEAM. Photo courtesy: IN TEAM

According to Forbes, “Networking is a full-time job and the more time you dedicate to it the more you will learn what works for you and against you. The more you procrastinate, the more you will find yourself disconnected from the opportunities that may potentially advance your career or allow you to meet the right people. Procrastination will take you back a few steps and you will lose the competitive edge that comes with meeting new people, gathering knowledge, and observing others that have mastered networking.”

The IN TEAM began as a way “to connect the business people of Thurston County by intentionally networking…When you share what you do and who you are with a large network, great things happen.” Founder Alan Shimamoto created the first South Sound Business Expo in October 2017 and this spring’s event promises to be equally jam-packed with speakers, vendors, information and more.

IN TEAM South Sound Business Expo vendors
At last year’s Expo, more than 60 vendors and 250 visitors explored booths from local businesses, listened to keynote speakers, and formed new relationships. Photo courtesy: IN TEAM

“Last year, we had 60 vendors and 250 plus people at the event,” says Shimamoto, and hosted industry experts, community members and business owners from across the region. As before, the Expo will be held at the gorgeous South Sound Manor Event Center and is free and open to the public.

From 2:30 p.m. until 4:00 p.m., come for an “ask the experts” panel. This year’s keynote guests are David Schaffert, President and CEO of the Thurston County Chamber of Commerce, Michael Cade, Executive Director of the Thurston EDC and author Daryl Murrow. Murrow’s book Gaining the Systems Advantage, “explores how unsuspecting small business owners get trapped in the daily chaos of feeling overwhelmed, frustrated, and out of control while growing their business, and provides strategies and solutions for escaping it.” Also, Carlos Camargo from Media Marketing Solutions will be sharing his thoughts on social media marketing for a business in today’s world.

From 4:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m., the center opens for the Expo. Free entry, samples, food and beverages as well as a lot of door prizes.  The South Sound Business Expo presenting sponsors are Media Marketing Solutions, the South Sound Manor Event Center, and the IN TEAM.

“Out of all of the different networking groups and business expos that I’ve been to this was by far the most engaging one I’ve ever been to,” says Michael Jameson of Evergreen Home Loans. He’s not alone in praise of the South Sound Business Expo.

IN TEAM South Sound Business Expo Alan Shimamoto
IN TEAM founder Alan Shimamoto is excited for the opportunity to bring so many businesses and individuals together to network, share, and learn. Photo courtesy: IN TEAM

Jessie Nearing, owner of Nearing Total Health, agrees. “People were really excited to meet one another and I’ve come away with some great new relationships for the business and with friends personally,” she says.

“The IN TEAM’s been a family to us, we’ve grown our business exponentially because of the IN TEAM,” adds Sarah Hendry of State Farm Insurance.

Relationships are the key to the organization. Their name stands for Intentionally Networking, Together Everyone Achieves More and that’s been their goal from day one. “We held our first meeting in September of 2016,” says Shimamoto. “Within 6 months, we had over 160 members! Word has travelled quickly, and many business owners are doing extremely well in Thurston County because of it. The IN TEAM has been successful because our founders and members have been involved with networking before. Through working together, we’ve built an efficient model that helps area business owners get great results!”

IN TEAM South Sound Business Expo South Sound Manor Event Center
The South Sound Business Expo will be held at the the gorgeous South Sound Manor Event Center in Tumwater. Photo courtesy: IN TEAM

Forbes concludes that, “Networking is both an art and a science.  But in the end networking should be fun, exciting and a rewarding approach to advancement. The more you network—with a positive outlook—the more you will learn. And if you’re always learning, you are growing and thus developing yourself—especially your interpersonal communication skills. Once you have become a pro at networking, you can begin to share your experiences, tips and tricks with others.”

What better way to dip your toe into the water than at the Expo? With so many colleagues, coworkers and future friends in one place, it’s the perfect place to take the networking plunge. If things go well, there are monthly IN TEAM events galore to help your business grow and thrive.

The South Sound Manor Event Center is located at 455 North Street SE in Tumwater. Check out the South Sound Business Expo Facebook page and  register here.

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