Take the pain out of networking with my round up of local groups in part 2 of my networking blog…

In the first of my networking blogs I explained how I’d come to realise the importance of networking when starting up your new business.  I was surprised by the choice and diversity of groups out there and decided to try a few out to ‘find my tribe’.

Over the Summer I attended a few groups in my locality of Norfolk (WiRE, Thrive.buzz and WHW – read about them here: https://mustardhr.co.uk/2019/10/01/network-network-network-part-1/).

I’ve since had time to try out a few more.  However, I have to confess, this Autumn things really started to kick off for me work-wise and I struggled to make it to as many events as I would’ve liked.  Obviously that’s a good thing and I’m really pleased with the way my business is going but I do intend to make a concerted effort to attend more networking events in the New Year – it’s my resolution!

Rather than wait until then, please read on to find out about some local networking events I have managed to attend (to be continued…)

Business Growth Club “Free Networking” meetings

(10 September 2019)

The Business Growth Club meetings are run by local businessman Neil Foley.  I arrived not knowing what to expect and was welcomed and offered a hot drink and biscuits.  Neil asked everyone to introduce themselves and an icebreaker question (“what is the attribute you use in your business that you are most proud of?”).  He brought along some pre-prepared material to discuss and went through some slides looking at the practice of other businesses (both good and bad) and there was discussion around those.  It is obvious that Neil takes time to thoroughly prepare for these sessions beforehand and it was very worthwhile for me in terms of take-away’s and areas to think about.  I also met a fellow HR Consultant who I connected with outside the meeting.  I’ll definitely go again.

Details: the meetings are free and held on a monthly basis 8-10am in Poringland and Hellesdon. https://businessgrowthclub.net/up-and-coming-events/

Norwich Business Women’s Network (NBWN)

(11 September 2019)

The NBWN meetings are lunch meetings held at a different venue each time.  This one was at the beautiful Assembly House, Norwich.  Guest’s gathered in reception initially and were offered wine or a soft alternative.  We were then asked to take our places in the dining room.  Everyone had a number with their name badge which corresponded with their place setting in order that tables are varied each time, which I liked.  I sat with a group of women in various business – a self-employed counsellor, charities and solicitors.  It felt a really nice mix and a good way of meeting new and interesting people and without any ‘hard sell’.  The meal was delicious and was followed by the speaker, Lucy McCarraher, an author and publisher who encouraged everyone to write a business book of their own – definitely food for thought!

NBWN details: the group meets monthly for lunch in various locations around Norwich.  There is an annual cost of £45 for individuals (£125 corporate membership).  The meal costs £17 (£20 for non-members who can attend twice before signing up).  There is a charity raffle at each lunch. https://www.nbwn.co.uk/

Well, that’s it for networking reviews this year, I hope you have enjoyed reading them.

Wishing you a very Merry Christmas and a prosperous New Year.