Women-Only or Mixed Networking: Which is Best for Your Business?

When it comes to growing your business and building valuable connections, networking is absolutely key. But with so many choices out there, how do you choose which meetings will most benefit your business (and you) – and should you attend women-only networking events, or are mixed ones going to be a better use of your time and resources? 

 

I’ve been in the networking game a long time now, and as you might expect, the answer isn’t the same for everyone. It comes down to your individual situation: your goals, your comfort levels, and where you are on your business journey. 

 

I’m proud to offer both women-only and mixed face-to-face meetings every month at Busy Networking, because I know that different spaces serve different purposes. So let’s explore the benefits of each, and help you decide what’s right for you. 

Women-only networking events are where my business began. I wanted to create a space where women can speak freely, share experiences, and support one another without the barriers that can sometimes come with mixed-gender environments. Many women have told me over the years that they feel more confident and comfortable speaking up in these settings, especially if they’re new to networking or running a business on their own. 

 

I’ve also been told time and again that women-only events foster a strong sense of camaraderie and mutual support that isn’t always replicated elsewhere. There’s a unique energy when women come together to uplift each other: conversations tend to be more open, advice flows easily, and collaborations naturally form. If you’re looking for a confidence boost, a safe space to test ideas, or simply a room full of like-minded women cheering you on, women-only networking could be just the ticket – and there’s a reason that Busy Women Networking goes from strength to strength every year! 

 

That said, mixed networking brings its own set of advantages. For many businesses, it’s essential to connect with a broader audience, especially if your product or service isn’t gender-specific and you’re looking to attract a broader range of clients. Mixed groups offer the chance to build relationships with a more diverse range of professionals, potential clients, and collaborators. 

 

It can also be a fantastic opportunity to challenge assumptions, practise your pitch with different audiences, and gain fresh perspectives. If you’re looking to grow your visibility, increase your referral network, or explore partnerships across a range of industries, mixed events can open doors that women-only spaces might not – and that’s the very reason I expanded Busy Networking to mixed events back in 2023. 

 

Truthfully - both can be! You don’t have to choose one over the other. Many of our members alternate between the two, depending on what they’re hoping to get out of each meeting. Women-only events can be a great springboard to build confidence and connect with peers in a nurturing environment. Mixed events can stretch your comfort zone and broaden your reach. 

 

The best networking strategy is one that fits you. Think about where you feel most energised, where you’re learning and growing, and where real connections are happening. That’s where you need to focus your energies. 

 

And of course, if you want to try both, Busy Networking has a range of welcoming, supportive meetings to suit your style - whether you want that women-only buzz, or the variety of a mixed room. 

 

Your network meetings should feel like a resource, not a chore. Explore, experiment, and trust your instincts. The most important part of networking isn’t the format - it’s showing up, being yourself, and building genuine connections in a community that helps you and your business to thrive.