To Network, Or Not To Network- That Is The Question...
Now more than ever the average person in business whether self employed or an employee...is networking. Ten years ago when I first launched my business network RSViP, there were a handful of large organisations offering various networking solutions, all of which offered the same kind of format- heavily structured, pitch focused and ever so slightly stuffy. This was 100% my inspiration for stepping outside of the box and finding another, more enjoyable solution for networking - why not introduce a more social element to the current networking format, to offer a relaxed and less contrived way to make new connections and build new relationships with other business folk.
It was a challenge in the beginning to educate the masses as to what I was trying to achieve, being as it was merely a light bulb moment in my head initially, but eventually the concept caught on! Over the years, I have seen new networks come and go and more so than ever before, we see a huge growth in networks popping up across the East Midlands, my inbox is full of invitations to network at lawyers firms, banks, bars and even bakeries - all offering a different style - some catching on and offering the more relaxed vibe I have so long endorsed... But how do you know which are worth your time? The short answer- Research.
With a lot of things it's a case of 'suck it and see'- 'try before you buy' and all that, but with network events you can do your research in advance- check reviews, ask others if they have attended and what they thought- even Google..We offer a free taster visit for first time guests- always look for those, but equally for us at the other side of things running the events, if someone isn't willing to pay a fee to attend subsequent events or join your network and spends all of their time seeking out the freebies across the city, then they are not the clientele you necessarily want within your network-so don't be that person either- you have to speculate to accumulate and in order to mix in the right circles- it will cost.
Many networks won't be for you for whatever reason, it may be the format doesn't suit you, or that the calibre of businesses there are not your market, or they come across as too amateur and unorganised, so be sure that you heavily consider not filling your diary for the month ahead with a selection of any old events just because you were invited, as it really isn't a numbers game- be strategic, be clever, be the tortoise not the hare and make the effort to forge healthy business relationships over a period of time. It isn't about how many business cards you can collect over the working week and after all time is money- in particular for smaller businesses who will notice a half day out of the office away from a productive day working both 'on' and 'in' their business. Remember too, you are a representation of your brand and your business services- so wouldn't you naturally want to be seen at the right places with the right people who also mirror this? My advice- YES get out there and network - just be strategic about it.
Yes I run a successful business network, but I will always tell people go and try a few and then come to us or vice versa- nine times out ten we see them again...
Fiona Duncan- Steer RSViP