Speed network in Valley Stream

“You’ve heard of a speed dating? It’s a similar concept except you don’t walk away with a date afterward.”

That’s how Valley Stream Chamber of Commerce board member Angela Ogurick described the upcoming speed networking event for local business owners. Each businessperson will have to prepare a 60-second presentation about the goods or services they offer.

Ogurick, an independent Mary Kay beauty consultant, said business owners will be put together at tables of four, and will rotate from table-to-table throughout the event. By the time the night is over, every merchant will have had a chance to make a sales pitch to everyone else. Ogurick said each businessperson can bring any brochures they want, as well as at least 30 business cards.

The networking event is open to all business owners and will be held on Thursday, April 15 at 6 p.m. at Strong Side Studios, 27 E. Merrick Road. There will be refreshments and a question and answer session at the end.

Ogurick said every month, local merchants and professionals introduce themselves at the Chamber’s networking lunches, but get to little else about each other’s business. She said she attended a speed networking event held by another chamber of commerce and thought it was a great idea for Valley Stream’s business community.

The cost is $15 for Chamber members and $20 for non-members. The deadline to register is April 1. To sign up, e-mail Ogurick at aogurick@marykay.com.