Although there are many ways to network for business online via the Social Media channels, there is still nothing like in person human interaction. In order to build strong social connections, you must also begin joining local groups, attending venues such as social media, networking and blogging conferences to add to the mix.

You may also created your own targeted niche group or event to draw others to you and begin marketing yourself as an expert within your field. There are many quality places where you can begin to reach out and connect.

These are the top 5 websites to help you find local networking events:

1. Facebook- If you join local Facebook groups, you will find many of these host periodic events to bring their followers together. Facebook is Huge- over 500,000,000 members. So,  there is an endless supply of these if you just start searching and joining local groups of interest. 

2. Meetup- We love this site and there are plenty of groups to join for almost every topic and location. Meetup.com says it is the world's largest network of local groups with 9.5 million members.

3. Craigslist- They are a highly visible and trafficked site that has thousands of events posted daily.  Everyone knows Craigslist and you might find more current events that you would not find anywhere else on the internet.

4. Socializr- Socializr is a web service that offers free online event invitations, and various ways to share event and party information with your friends.

5. Netparty- A site that connects young professionals 20's- 30's for business and social networking events. A growing membership with over 100,000 members.

Do you have any sites that you would like to add to this list?