This class takes place Friday, September 18th, 2026 from 6:45am - 8:00am

Light Breakfast Provided

Overview:

Turning Conversations into Business Opportunities

Networking is more than handing out business cards, it's one of the most powerful business development tools available. Learn how to walk into any event with confidence, identify the right people to meet, start meaningful conversations, and build relationships that lead to referrals, partnerships, and new business.

Jennifer Hopper is the Community Affairs Manager for ABC San Diego, where building strategic relationships with business leaders, elected officials, and industry decision-makers is a core part of her work. As a board leader, public speaker, and community advocate, she teaches practical networking strategies that help professionals build meaningful connections, create new business opportunities, and build lasting business relationships.

Participants will learn how to:

• Walk into any networking event with a clear strategy.
• Set measurable objectives before attending an event.
• Identify the people who can help grow their business.
• Start conversations naturally, even if networking feels uncomfortable.
• Build authentic relationships instead of making awkward sales pitches.
• Follow up in a way that keeps the conversation going.
• Turn networking into a consistent source of referrals and business opportunities.
• Make every networking event worth the time invested.

Pain Points Addressed:

• "I go to networking events but never get any business from them."
• "I don't know who I should be talking to."
• "I hate small talk."
• "I always end up talking to the same people."
• "I don't know how to approach someone important."
• "I have trouble turning conversations into opportunities."
• "I leave events wondering if attending was worth it."
• "I'm trying to break into a new market but don't know anyone."
• "I want to meet decision-makers but don't know how."
• "Our company needs more relationships, not just more leads."
• "I know networking matters, but I don't have a system."

Participants will:

• Meet the right people faster.
• Build relationships that create trust.
• Receive introductions to decision-makers.
• Expand into new industries and markets.
• Generate more referrals.
• Increase visibility for themselves and their company.
• Make networking feel natural instead of intimidating.
• Leave every event with meaningful new connections.

Who Should Attend:

• Business Owners
• Business Development & Sales Professionals
• Project Managers & Estimators
• Marketing Professionals
• Anyone who wants to grow their business through strategic networking

Class parking is located in the lot behind the ABCSD building. If the gate to the right of the building is open, please park in back.

CANCELLATIONS must be received 48-business-hours prior to the start of class to receive a refund.  

QUESTIONS?  Please call (858) 513-4700 and ask for Lauren Varney