September 4, 2007 > East Bay Business Expo East Bay Business Expo Submitted By Kathy T. Beecher Are you spending thousands of marketing dollars only to win a few face-to-face meetings? Tired of networking events where you diligently work the room and never connect with that one "right" business connection? At the East Bay Business Expo you will speak with scores of new prospects, without making a single cold call, giving you a fabulous opportunity to meet interesting business colleagues, connect with other professionals, and grow your business. Admission is free, so hundreds of attendees are expected to visit exhibitors' booths while enjoying delicious hors d'oeurves and beer, wine, or other beverages served at various stations throughout the Expo. Past events have attracted up to 1500 attendees, and this high-energy Expo should be no different. Drawings and door prizes will be awarded throughout the event. The event will also feature a "speed networking" mixer. There is a fee for non-exhibitors to participate in Speed Networking ($25 in advance, or $30 at the door).According to Derinda Gaumond, President of WorkIt.com and a well-known host of Silicon Valley business mixers, speed networking is fast becoming popular because it allows people to talk with other professionals, one person at a time. "Each encounter lasts only a few minutes," said Gaumond, "and then, like a game of musical chairs, another encounter begins with a different attendee. People love it because you can quickly get the information you need, and then move on to the next contact." East Bay Business Expo September 13, 2007 3 - 7 p.m. Marriott Courtyard Hotel 34905 Newark Blvd., Newark (510) 797-5100