Is networking impossible for a single, working mother?

Networking is key to getting ahead in business whether you are an employee, contractor, or entrepreneur.  What can a single working mother do when business networking consists of happy hours, galas, and events that last late into the evening? When kids have to be picked up by six, fed, and in the bed by 8, is networking impossible? Definitely not.

1. Use your resources. Are your children in school? There are some networking events that take place early in the morning.  Wake up an hour earlier and use "before school care", if your child's school offers it, so that you can attend a 7:30 breakfast event, and still make it to work on time.

2. Save your babysitting points. If you have a friend or family member that you trust to babysit your children, don't use up your babysitting points on the weekends.  For most people, it is easier to babysit during the week when the kids do homework and go to bed at eight than it is on the weekends when they have to be entertained, and often stay up late. Not only that, most people have plans for their weekends, and will not be able to watch your children.  If you have  "corporate optional" event or important networking events that you should be attending, focus on the ones after work hours and during the work week, and make arrangements with a trusted babysitter to watch the kids.

3. Take it online. There are several social networking sites geared to professionals where you can meet and greet other professionals, and get great information from the comfort of your own laptop. One popular website that you can use is http://www.linkedin.com.

4. Make the most of where you are. If you have been avoiding attending non mandatory events at your child's school (PTA meetings, sporting events for a team your child isn't on), go.  If you are only attending events that your child is involved in, there are many parents (who are also business owners, co-workers, and HR managers) that you won't have a chance to meet.  It is also great for the kids to get to know other kids and to be involved in their school's activities.

5. Be your own conversation starter. Whether you own your own business or work for another company, wearing company polo shirts can get people talking wherever you are.  A simple t-shirt, jacket, or laptop bag with a logo can start a conversation on the train, on the bus, at the gas station, in line where you pick up lunch, at the grocery store, at a PTA meeting, or just about anywhere.  Pull out the polo shirt you received in your "welcome to the company" package or order some of your own if you have your own company. Queensboro is a NC based company that has low minimums if you need to order a couple of items.

6. Do more with your kids. That's right. Doing more with your kids is a great way to meet people. Check out your local newspaper's events guide to see what events you can get into.  You would be surprised who you will meet!

One of the great things about being a social single mom is that there are so many opportunities to meet people who can help you advance your career.  These days, there is rarely a shortage of things to do for families of all kinds.  The key to networking for a single parent is to be creative, be social, and be informed.

Author Profile: Eva Wilson  - Website

Eva is the administrator and blogger for SocaMom.com. Follow her on Twitter at @socamomdc.