Networking Groups

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

Anyone belong to any business networking groups?

I am a member of the FSB and have been invited to another group and am just wondering if anyone has any experiences to share?

[Candybeatdiscos]

In the hotel we were members of the FSB, and as a result when i restart the business i will join them at the earliest moment, they seem very good... as for any others not through the DJ'ing side of things, however i am a member and coach of the Chartered Institute of Customer Service (obtained through a previous job), to which i impress the same standards in every job i do as i have internal and external customers.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

In the hotel we were members of the FSB, and as a result when i restart the business i will join them at the earliest moment.

It's you that's the member, not the business, so it doesn't matter what business you are in.

[Shaun]

I'm not a member of any. Have you noticed any real benefits to being a member?. I'm genuinely interested.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I'm not a member of any. Have you noticed any real benefits to being a member?. I'm genuinely interested.

There are definate benefits to being a member of the FSB, networking aside.

I am yet to go to a meeting, but will soon.

The other one I have been invited to is a breakfast meeting group. 6:45am...:eek:

The chap who approached me was at the wedding I did on Saturday and runs a PAT testing business. He told me that you talk about your business for a minute when you first go and then give out lots of cards and network.

I can see this working, as everyone knows someone who is getting married or having a party. Lots of companies have summer BBQs, quiz nights and Xmas parties and my company could be put forward and referred for these.

[Shaun]

Interesting. Thanks, Daz.

[Solitaire Events Ltd]

I'll let you know what happens when I go in the next few weeks.

[Shaun]

That would be great, thanks.

[Impactdisco]

I've been invited to a few networking groups. After you've been a couple of times, you then get invited to join. The cheapest was £500 a year.

May be worth the money, but to be honest I felt looked down upon as if I was just a hobbyist and not a real business, when in truth I am a full time business owner, the same as them.

[CRAZY K]

There are definate benefits to being a member of the FSB, networking aside.

I am yet to go to a meeting, but will soon.

The other one I have been invited to is a breakfast meeting group. 6:45am...:eek:

The chap who approached me was at the wedding I did on Saturday and runs a PAT testing business. He told me that you talk about your business for a minute when you first go and then give out lots of cards and network.

I can see this working, as everyone knows someone who is getting married or having a party. Lots of companies have summer BBQs, quiz nights and Xmas parties and my company could be put forward and referred for these.

I know people in the Financial Services Profession who have belonged to this kind of " Breakfast Club for business"

I think its American in origin?

It gives you an opportunity to obtain business.

The downside appeared from feedback that whilst there were referrals OVERALL THE RESULTS WERE DISAPPOINTING.

Anyway--nothing to lose--give it a go--possibly if you also offered full range AV hire for Companies that might increase the potential--I suppose it depends who is in this Breakfast Club--if its a lot of small self employed businessman it might not be so worthwhile--if you have people from larger organisations then I guess that would be an advantage.

Better set that alarm clock early:D :D :D

CRAZY K

[MK Printing]

Hey all

I actually run networking events in Manchester. The website is www.brookfieldnetworking.co.uk

We hold a free monthly event and we have had DJs attend before.

Our next event is Thursday 2nd October, 6pm - 9pm. Free food and drink!

Also if you visit our website you can download a free networking ebook that explains how to get the most out of events.

Matt