First networking meeting!

[Hayles]

Hi

I'm attending my first networking lunch today! Any tips on making it as productive as possible for us?

Hayles

[mumper]

Don't forget to take lots of business cards - good luck.

[Richard]

I'm attending my first networking lunch today! Any tips on making it as productive as possible for us?
Hi Hayles

Try to find out what the people you meet are passionate about without actually asking them.

Think about what really matters in your life. What are your passions? :?:

It's not necessarily as easy as it sounds.

I'm passionate about doing all I can to help my two daughters to be successful in life. :)

After that I do struggle a bit, as probably others do.

I attended a Business Link seminar last night entitled 'Have you got what it takes?'

Often it just helps to meet other people who are trying to find their own independence.

All the best.

Richard

[ebonybailey]

always talk bout other people, naturally they will ask what you do but as a potential customer they see that you can listen.

Michael

[Ozzy]

Remember true networking is not trying to sell your services to the people you meet, but instead build up a list of contacts.
If you do it well the people you meet become your sales people and you become theres!

[Jayne]

Hi Hayles,

Let me know what it was like, I thought it was a boose up, guess I was wrong :lol:

I've never been to one and would be interested what went off and do you have to dress posh ? :D

Thanks

Jayne

[Hayles]

Well, I'm back - and in one piece Jayne!!

It was very daunting at first but got easier. Some on the women there seemed to go to 3 or 4 meetings each week so it must work for them. I think it will be worth going to say one or two each month and I'll feel more confident to speak to others next time now I know how it works.

I learnt one thing today that made it worthwhile going - Essex Libraries offer loads and loads of business services free or at really good rates. Eg. mailing lists (inc emails), company credit checks, company formations, business plans, vat help, etc. Might be of help when starting up and money is really tight.

No fancy frocks though Jayne - but excellent food, cake and wine!!

Hayles

[Russ]

Hayles

Where was this networking lunch and who organised it and were there many attendees?

Russ

[Richard]

It was very daunting at first but got easier. Some on the women there seemed to go to 3 or 4 meetings each week so it must work for them. I think it will be worth going to say one or two each month and I'll feel more confident to speak to others next time now I know how it works.
Hi Hayles

I think its important to do just what you feel comfortable with. If you can't help yourself you might be able to help someone else. :)

It's likely to be a long term strategy so make sure you enjoy the experience.

Did you know that this week is 'enterprise week'?
http://www.starttalkingideas.org/enterpriseweek/

Check out your local business link website because there are sure to be some free events paid for by HM government.

All the best.

Richard

[Hayles]

Russ, this one was organised by Business Link and was held in Colchester (ladies only!). There are lots this week in Essex, being Enterprise Week as Richard said. I guess there was about 40 of us there. There were a couple of very short speeches but then we were left to chat and eat.

I wish I'd thought of your suggestion before I went Rudi...! I'll admit now you've mentioned it that I left before the end without speaking to many people! But I'll be happier to mix and chat more next time now I know a couple of faces and what to expect.

Hayles

[SanaerJewelleryCreations]

Hayles...

do let us know who organised it,how many turned up,did you make the first approach,how many approached you...was there small talk,did you meet anyone else there who was new at it...

did you feel like a `bit of a lemon`...

can't wait for my first one!!!!!

Adrian the Lemon. :lol:

[Jayne]

Hi Hayles,

Glad you got through it ok, quite fancy trying one myself, i'll have a look on the business link page and see if they do any near me. Shame about the new frock though (any excuse for a new frock :lol: ).

Jayne

[clairemackaness]

Hi Hayles,

Holiday Inn Basildon 4.30-6.30 wednesday night is the Business Link Thames Gateway Network Exchange. I have to go for my work (learning and skills council) but will also be being sneeky and taking my art cards with me!

Oh and it's FREE!

Might see you there.

Claire

[Hayles]

They mentioned the Brentwood meeting today, if we weren't so busy I might have come along to say hi!

Have fun :D

[clairemackaness]

Its in Basildon not Brentwood. Festival Leisure Park (Bas Vegas) Holiday Inn.

You should never be too busy for a spot of local networking! LOL

[MorethanWords]

Ooh, can I come Claire? Do you have to be invited? I won't embarrass you I promise!

[clairemackaness]

Sure come with me. I'll meet you in the foyer bar at 4.30pm. I know the organisers and lots of people going so I'll introduce you. Dress to impress and bring lots of cards. We might be able to get some more people for our event.