Host Networking Meeting in Raleigh-Durham area

Two people meeting over a cup of coffee
Listen to the Networking Meeting article

A networking meeting can be pivotal for everyone in business, whether searching for a job or being perfectly happy in their current position. Networking meetings allow for new ideas to flourish, dreams to develop and friendships to be made. Having a go-to spot for networking makes scheduling these meetings even easier. 

Briefcase Coach‘s favorite place to host a one-on-one networking meeting is Namu in Durham. With its casual vibe, great outdoor space, and quieter cafe room, there is a little something for everyone. Grab a quiet lunch with your laptop or gather with a larger group for engaging conversation. The Raleigh-Durham area is full of true gems, from casual coffee to after-work drinks. 

RALEIGH

  • Brew Coffee Bar – Open, bright space provides a great place to work independently or have an intimate conversation. 
  • The Iron Oaks – Offering locally inspired small plates, beer, and wine – this is a great place to stop in after work to meet over a drink.
  • The Rockford – For a more intimate setting, this is a great upscale place to meet. If having brunch, be sure to enjoy their delicious breakfast burrito!
  • Kandy Apples by K – Add an element of fun to your meeting and enjoy one of their flavorful treats! So many great and natural conversation starters here!
Interior of a candy apple shop
Kandy Apples by K

DURHAM

Rooftop Meeting Space at The Durham Hotel
  • The Durham Hotel – Host a meeting with a group in one of their private meeting spaces, including one on the rooftop.
  • Fullsteam @ Boxyard RTP – Need to host a really large group? The private rental space here can host up to 200 people.
  • Cloche Coffee – This quaint spot next to Duke’s campus has great coffee and offers a nice spot to have a one-on-one conversation with a new acquaintance. 
  • Press Coffee – Get in a meeting before work and fuel up for the day with their full brunch menu. 
  • Boss of Vegan – Open from 12 – 7 each day, ideal for a late lunch or after-work meet-up.

CARY

  • Catalan Tapas Bar – With tapas dishes inspired from around the world and daily happy hour specials, this is the perfect place to host an after work networking meeting.
  • Asali Desserts & Cafe – Enjoy a cup of coffee and tasty bites in this beautifully decorated space. Feeling extra special? Plan ahead and enjoy high tea.
  • Di Fara Pizza Tavern – A casual place to meet after work or on the weekends for a drink and delicious pizza.
  • Esteamed Coffee – On a mission to employ those in our community with disabilities, Esteamed Coffee strives “to connect people in a purposeful, intentional community that enriches the livess of our employees and patrons through their fellowship in a warm and welcoming environment.”
Esteamed Coffee in Cary, NC

surrounding areas

Fresh cup of coffee at Cultivate Coffee
  • Cultivate Coffee Roasters in Fuquay-Varina – “With a modern industrial twist on a small town coffee shop vibe, when you are here you will feel at home with friendly baristas and local owners.”
  • Filament Coffee & Tea in Mebane – Built around a mission to charm it’s patrons, this charming coffee shop is a perfect place to meet a new or old friend for a great conversation over a delicious cup of coffee.

Author

  • Sarah Johnston

    I’m a former corporate recruiter and industry “insider” who got tired of seeing talented high-achievers get passed over for opportunities because they did not have the right marketing documents or know how to position themselves in interviews. I have relocated multiple times across the country as a “trailing spouse” and have had to execute job searches in completely cold markets (where I literally knew no one!) I have been named a LinkedIn Top Voice in the career space in 2019, HR Weekly’s Top 100 Most Influential People in HR, named the owner of the “best resume writing firm for experienced executives” by Balance Careers and a “top follow” by JobScan in 2019 and 2020.

Sarah Johnston

Sarah Johnston is a former corporate recruiter and industry "insider" with a passion for empowering high-achievers in their career journeys. Frustrated by talented individuals being overlooked due to ineffective marketing documents and interview strategies, Sarah made it her mission to equip professionals with the tools and knowledge to succeed. As a seasoned "trailing spouse" who relocated multiple times, she understands the challenges of executing job searches in unfamiliar markets. Sarah's expertise and impact have earned her recognition as a LinkedIn Top Voice in 2019 and a spot on HR Weekly's Top 100 Most Influential People in HR. Her resume writing firm has been acclaimed as the best for experienced executives by Balance Careers, while JobScan listed her as a top follow in 2019 and 2020.

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