When it comes to building a successful career in SEO, one principle has stood out as the foundation of my achievements: surrounding myself with an amazing network. This isn’t about compiling a prospect list or chasing leads—it’s about cultivating genuine relationships that foster trust, collaboration, and growth. One initiative that embodies this philosophy is OpenCoffee, a concept I championed during my agency’s journey, which continues to inspire me today.
What is OpenCoffee?
OpenCoffee was originally launched by Saul Klein, co-founder of Skype, as a casual networking event designed to bring together entrepreneurs, developers, and investors in an informal setting. The idea was simple yet profound—a space for conversation and collaboration without the rigid structures or sales-driven agendas of traditional networking groups like BNI56. Instead, OpenCoffee thrives on spontaneity and mutual support, creating an “un-networking” environment where relationships naturally lead to business outcomes.
Why OpenCoffee Matters
In my experience running an agency in a small city in Ireland—with most of our business coming from Dublin, London, and the USA—OpenCoffee became a lifeline for connecting local entrepreneurs and business owners with world-class ideas. These meetups weren’t about pitching services or closing deals; they were about pairing self-motivated founders with innovative thinkers to elevate everyone’s ideation and development.
Here’s what makes OpenCoffee so impactful:
- Trust Building: In a globalized world where “who to trust” is a universal challenge for agencies and clients alike, OpenCoffee creates an environment of authenticity and reliability.
- Organic Networking: Unlike structured events, OpenCoffee fosters connections through casual interactions, mirroring the way backlinks work in SEO—building authority through genuine relationships.
- Idea Sharing: Participants exchange insights freely, sparking creativity and innovation without the pressure of immediate goals.
- Support System: Beyond business, OpenCoffee offers mental and emotional support, helping attendees balance work-life challenges..
Outcomes Over Time
Over a decade of hosting these meetups, I witnessed remarkable outcomes that extended far beyond traditional networking metrics:
- Broad Trust Networks: Relationships built on trust rather than direct sales became invaluable for scaling authority in link building and beyond.
- Digital Transformation: Brick-and-mortar businesses successfully transitioned to digital platforms with the help of local expertise shared during meetups.
- Geographic Protection: By fostering local connections, agencies gained resilience against the limitations of online-only strategies.
- Paying It Forward: Participants embraced the philosophy of sharing ideas freely, creating a ripple effect of innovation and collaboration.
Why Digital Agencies Are Key
Digital agencies play a unique role in initiatives like OpenCoffee. As hubs of creativity and technical expertise, they act as connectors between diverse industries and individuals. Every attendee becomes a potential client or collaborator, amplifying the agency’s reach while strengthening its local presence. Agencies also benefit from the trust built through these relationships—trust that translates into better client retention and expanded opportunities13.
How You Can Start Your Own OpenCoffee
If you’re inspired by this idea, here’s how you can create your own version:
- Keep It Casual: Focus on organic interactions rather than structured agendas.
- Invite Diverse Participants: Include entrepreneurs, consultants, mom-and-pop shops, and tech startups.
- Spotlight Innovators: Every few meetups, introduce groundbreaking thinkers or startups to inspire attendees.
- Prioritize Collaboration Over Sales: Encourage participants to share ideas rather than pitch services.
OpenCoffee isn’t just a networking event—it’s a movement that transforms communities by fostering trust, collaboration, and innovation. Whether you’re in SEO or another industry entirely, this approach can redefine how you connect with others and grow your business. So grab a coffee, invite some like-minded individuals, and see where the conversation takes you!
