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!
I enjoyed my first meeting at The Business Community. The atmosphere was friendly and welcoming. Anyone new to networking would feel comfortable from the outset. The agenda was enjoyable, but business-like and informative. It was interesting to learn about all the other businesses around the table, and they showed a genuine interest in my business. What stood out for me was when we broke for a 10 minute 121 with another individual. That was a chance to establish a real connection with someone else in the room.
Robin Kirkley - Vizeo Media
Professional environment and extremely friendly. We have plenty of recommendations and customers from networking hence the reason to go further with this group. Various locations to choose from and on top of this, there's always a warm welcome from Paul.
Victor Petrescu - Storefirst
The Business Community has been extremely helpful to my business. The meetings are well run - they have a well-defined structure, but have a good mix of formality and informality. I enjoy meeting other members, have made some good connections, got great business advice from Paul and the wider group and, last but not least, gained work whose value is several times the cost of membership.
Mark Coster - Pixooma
