The idea of business networking can fill some of us with dread, yet it’s a great way to drum up business, learn from peers and find suppliers and partners; and it doesn’t matter if you are networking in person or online, these tips still apply.
We got together with some Chamber members to take advantage of their experience and remind ourselves about the best approach to networking events. You can read this blog or watch the video below to hear these tips.
Video produced by Let’s Talk Video Production.
So what are the Brighton Chamber members’ top tips for business networking?
6 top tips for business networking
1. Firstly, plan ahead. Flo Powell of Midnight Communications tells us how she prepares for networking events by getting in touch with the event organisers to see the attendee list and arrange an introduction (Here at Brighton Chamber we do this a lot, making useful introductions is something business matchmaker, Amy loves to do!)
2. Secondly, prepare your elevator pitch. Kate Tyrer of Shoreham Port empathises that it can be hard to summarise what your business does (especially if you are a busy port!) but giving a quick and easily understandable introduction to your business is advantageous and practising it beforehand will leave you confident on the day.
3. Thirdly, aim to make genuine connections. Jody Raynsford of Hello Genius rates real conversations, rather than trying to shorehorn your company name into every second of conversation. Kate Tyrer reminds us to ask questions and be curious about other people’s work so that you can learn and connect on a deeper level.
4. Fourthly, use contacts made at networking events to help your clients. Chartered Accountant Paige Collins tells us how introducing your clients to a valuable contact you met at a networking event will improve your value in their eyes.
5. Next, be honest. James Dempster of Cobb Digital thinks we can get a lot out of talking about the difficult aspects of business as this leads to receiving peer support and helpful advice. Brighton Chamber’s Amy Lishman balances this with saying we should not be shy to celebrate our successes together too.
6. Finally, “networking is what you put into it so enjoy it and embrace it,” as Paige Collins says.
Are you interested in joining Brighton Chamber at a networking event? Check out our events listings here.
If you want to contribute to the Chamber blog, contact us on hannah@brightonchamber.co.uk