Beyond Small Talk: Meaningful Networking for Women

Hate networking? You’re not alone! But deep down, you know its value. The problem isn’t you, it’s that no one ever taught you how to network in a way that feels natural, comfortable, and even enjoyable. That’s exactly what this event is designed to change!

Join Portland Women’s Social Circle and Katie Zoe Brunelle, founder of The Atrium, for an empowering, hands-on workshop that will give you the confidence and tools to make networking work for you.

What to Expect:

• Craft Your Non-Elevator Pitch - Ditch the robotic intros and learn how to introduce yourself in a way that sparks genuine interest.
• Bring Value to Every Conversation - No more awkward small talk! Learn how to connect in a way that’s authentic and engaging.
• Exit Conversations Gracefully - Because getting stuck in a never-ending chat is not the goal.
• Follow Up Meaningfully - Keep the momentum going and turn new connections into real opportunities.
• Networking Mixer - After the workshop, we’ll put our skills to use with a networking mixer at Salt Yard Bar, where drinks and food are available for purchase.
  

When: Saturday, April 12th, 2025 | 2-4 PM

Where: Canopy by Hilton, Portland, ME

*Conference room details to follow

Who is this for:

• Entrepreneurs looking to confidently communicate their value and make impactful business connections.
• Corporate professionals who want to build stronger relationships, network with ease, and stand out in their industry.
• Women in career transitions seeking to expand their circle, explore new opportunities, and gain confidence in professional settings.
• Anyone who feels awkward at networking events and wants to replace small talk with meaningful conversations.
• Women looking to boost their social confidence—whether for work, social events, or everyday interactions.

If you’ve ever felt unsure about how to introduce yourself, keep a conversation going, or follow up effectively, Beyond Small Talk is your chance to learn, practice, and connect in a fun, supportive environment!

By the end of this event, you might just love networking—or at least feel a whole lot better about it.

Katie Zoe Brunelle, founder of The Atrium, is a multi-faceted business coach with a background in operations, event production, marketing, and founding successful companies. She has developed and co-hosted a variety of podcasts, TV, and YouTube productions that have generated national followings. She has been featured in media such as BBC, NPR, The Cut, FOX, The Doctors, HuffPost, and Elle magazine. Katie has a PR Strategies certification from Cornell; has won several New England Society of Healthcare Communications Lamplighter awards; and won the Women’s Distinguished Business Award from WomensNet.

Through The Atrium, Katie hosts exclusive network + learn events for entrepreneurs ready to make impactful connections. Her framework, The Upward Success Spiral, helps ambitious entrepreneurs who want a clear vision for how they provide a service or product that benefits others; to grow their business exponentially to reach more people; and to live in alignment with their creativity, dreams, and passions.

Katie lives in Portland, Maine with her two teenagers, partner, and a plethora of pets and houseplants. She enjoys travel, reading, writing, and living in a small coastal city with delicious restaurants.

This group is open, friendly and we've ALL come by ourselves at one time so know you're not alone. We believe in the power of friendship and we're here to foster it through conversation, connection and community!

Learn more about us: www.PortlandWomensSocialCircle.com

Host or Publisher Portland Women's Social Circle