I occasionally write for a site called Networking Event Finders, where you can post a basic event listing for free. This was an article I wrote back in October 2009. Much has happened since then but it’s still an interesting read.

Lately I’ve noticed a trend – instead of product launches, companies are turning to business mixers. Traditionally, mixers are hosted by Chambers of Commerce; but these days, I think companies realize that bringing people together is a better way of introducing their products and services. By fostering community and conversations via a relatively low-cost event (compared to say, a product launch), both the host and attendees of such events have much to gain.  Read on.

And here’s an even older article on Online Networking vs. Traditional Networking.