Networking...it's fun!

A bit of business learning I'd like to share with you...

About a year a go I got talking to a man whilst out walking my dogs (you tend to talk to strangers when you have a dog-don't worry he had a dog too!) who asked what I did for a living.  When he found out that I was a designer-maker for wallpapers and homewares, he mentioned to me about a local Networking group that gets together every week (extremely early...humph 5:30am!!) to swap business cards, 'talk business' and overall network with one another over breakfast, all in aid to get inspired before the day begins.

He told me to look into it as it may be a good way of making contacts and getting the word out about my business.

As he was explaining the details to me, I found myself thinking this is very daunting to be in a room with up to 20 plus strangers, all suited and booted 'talking business', and you have to try and sell your business to them at the same time.

After a little bit of thought I ruled it out. I found I wasn't confident enough yet to talk to a load of 'business' men and women about what I do, or even have the courage to walk into a room full of people who have most likely know one another for sometime.

Anyway, time had been and passed, and around the end of October 2012 I was approached by my mum's friend's daughter who owns her own Estate Agency - Vanessa McCullum Estates.  She told me about a local monthly women's only get together and asked if I was interested in coming along for one session and see what it's like.

Well after a little bit of doubt (due to confidence of turning up somewhere, not knowing anyone, also having to talk about yourself) and a lot of thinking, I thought why not bite the bullet and do it, what could be harmful about talking/socialising in a room with women...easy!

Little did I realise when I turned up that this was a formal networking session and I had to do a 'Monthly Minute' on my business so they can learn and understand what I do (everyone had to do it too, phew!-and for the record I was informed in advance).

After two hours the meeting was over and I was able to talk a little bit more to some of the ladies in the group. They were all so lovely, very welcoming, plus really took an interest in Laura Felicity and what I do.

Since the meeting I decided to join the networking group, and I can tell you I have not looked back. It is such an easy group to get along with; the ladies are positive, full of ideas to make your business grow and are very kind to pass on contacts that may be of use to your business. 

Plus you find great contacts which can come in use to your business or personal life and in return by using their services you are providing them business, i.e I have found a local printers who now print my business cards, which are of excellent quality (I highly recommend for all printing needs!) and I'm soon to be doing some local advertising where I know the owner won't overcharge me and take me for a ride with my money when it comes to advertising.

Throughout the month we are also able to arrange 1-1's with different members, which is an informal and great way to get to know each member one on one, as well as learn more about each other's business, and find out how we can help each other further-even if it's just to spread the word, because you never know who the person you are talking to knows, and so on!

The group I belong to is called Athena, a National and company which is a Women In Business Networking Group, and has Regions all over the UK.  From what I've experienced about networking is not what I thought it be at all, and I think this is to do with the network group itself.

I really wish I had started networking sooner, as it's people and contacts who can really help you and get you to where you'd like to be, plus it's such great fun!

...something to think about if like me, you are self employed, or work by yourself and feel like you need a little bit of advice/support/natter from time to time!

Until Friday with the Feel Good Friday Post, take care.

Best Wishes,

Laura Felicity