How to get the best from networking meetings

When you’re a small business owner, it can be really lonely. In particular you’re likely to miss the opportunity to meet other people in your profession, or even other business owners. Networking meetings can be a great way to ensure you don’t lose these opportunities. Here’s some top tips on how to ensure you get the best from networking meetings.

Find the one that works for you

The first thing is to try different groups. There are many different groups and they all offer a different way to come together, network and build business. Most will require some kind of referral model. The core idea behind most networking groups is that you can get connected with people who help you find business in a way you couldn’t yourself. To get the most from that kind of potential, you have to try out different groups. Also, different groups will have different people and if no business comes from the groups, you’ve at least built some great business connections. We never know when we might need the help or support of other business professionals.

Ask for support where needed

Being a business owner is tough. Sometimes you run into business problems and you need to get advice and support. Networking groups are full of people who have been there, made their mistakes and willing to share their learnings and provide advice where needed. You don’t have to shoulder your business burdens on your own.

Have those 1:1s!

Again, another expectation from most networking groups is to have individual meetings with other members. This is probably the best way to build those personal connections. Being in a big group can be daunting and there can be banter and conversations going on which pass you by. By getting to know members individually, you build those connections and get more out of being a member yourself.

Use the groups to grow your professional skills

If you’re not used to delivering a presentation, being a chair, coordinating activities or other business skills like growing memberships or using social media, networking groups are great ways to build those professional skills over time. Don’t forget, as much as you want your business to be a success, you have to continually grow as a professional, and networking groups give a good route for that professional development to take place.

If you can’t commit, be a substitute

One of the easiest ways to be part of a networking group is to be a substitute if you can’t commit full-time. Being a sub(stitute) means you get to fill in for a regular member when they can’t attend. It means you get to build those connections at your pace and remind regular members that there may be good opportunity to do business with you and be connected with you.

Not every networking group is going to be right for you

Sometimes it’s the format of the group - it might be either too formal, or too informal. It might be you’re not getting enough leads or referrals. It might be that you’re not getting on with some of the members. Whatever your reason, if it’s not working for you, that’s ok. You’re not obliged to any of them, and even if you’ve paid for an annual subscription, you don’t have to remain present.

Come and try networking at Epping Forest Business Group

Here at TEC, we host EFBG. Our coworking space is great for networking meetings, and we host EFBG every Thursday morning from 7:30am-9am. Just send an email to info@efbg.co.uk and you can attend for free to your first visit.