City plans business networking workshops

Bloomington artists and arts organizations will have a chance to learn how to market themselves through social networking workshops this week.

Miah Michaelsen, Bloomington’s assistant economic development director for the arts, said the workshops are geared toward artists or organizations that are already established and looking to grow their businesses through social media.

Participants will learn about Etsy, a Web site where people can sell or buy vintage and handmade products, according to a City of Bloomington press release.

Sarah “Intellagirl” Robbins will give a keynote speech on social media marketing.

The day will also include a hands-on session, according to the press release. During this time, participants will learn how to set up their own product sales Web sites.

Michaelsen said the workshops are ideal for artists and arts organizations because of the benefits social media offers.

“It’s low-cost and can be done anywhere,” she said. “It has the potential to get a message out to a large number of people effectively.”