How to make the most of your visit
Business networking is not the easiest or most natural for some, especially if you have never been to a networking meeting before.
If you are nervous or anxious, don't worry - you will made to feel welcome and be put at ease. Everyone in the room had to go to their first networking meeting at some point in time, so they can relate and appreciate what it is like to be a virgin networker! Over time, like developing a muscle, you get stronger and feel more comfortable.
Give it go.
To help you make the most of it, here are a few pointers:
- Be prepared - make sure you know what you are going to say in your elevator pitch (it is fine to write it down and read it out; particularly if you are new to all this
- Bring business cards (and any other marketing material you have including banners - there are no restrictions or extra costs for promoting your business at an event
- Have at least one goal you want to achieve from attending the meeting e.g. meet 2 new people, get a 1-2-1 meeting with another person in the diary, share a top tip and so on
- Come with a positive outlook and a smile!
For more pointers, download this free guide.
Book a meeting now
Having just started networking I realise what great opportunities there are in the local area and get to meet some very interesting people and businesses.
I'm very positive that given time the fruits of my effort will pay off, so keeping my fingers crossed.
In any case, The Business Community is a very welcoming environment and not the stuffy corporate atmosphere I used to in my past life.
Geraint Williams - Fourwinds Photography Services
Since starting my business 18 months or so ago, I have gone from a networking novice to being a solid contributor through meeting and getting to know the wealth of business skills, knowledge and experience of Paul Green and the members of The Business Community. I mainly attend the Wellingborough session, but have plans to spread myself further afield in Northamptonshire during the rest of this year as membership allows this, unlike others.
The format of the meetings is fun, but has meaning ... and you can always be assured a friendly welcome (as I got recently when attending the Daventry session for the first time). I have made loads of good business contacts that I would have only made through The Business Community ... if you are starting or have recently started a business, book yourself on a session and find out for yourself ... breakfast is good too!
Andy Sarson - APS Marketing Consulting Services
I have done lots of networking over the years, and I love The Business Community. It hits just the right mix of being structured and organised while still being a friendly and relaxed place to be. The business world would be a lonelier place without it.
Paul Marks - Michael Paul Accountants
The Business Community is bringing me ever-increasing levels of business; as well as invaluable business support.
Stephen Church - Copywriter Pro
