Networking is the exchange of information and ideas among people with a common professional or business interest. It can be one benefit of joining a professional organisation, a union, or attending a trade fair or convention.
Networking often occurs spontaneously when like-minded professionals and businesspeople cross paths, usually in an informal setting. People network to expand their businesses and social acquaintances, discover relevant job opportunities and increase their awareness of developments in their particular fields.
In stark contrast with their US contemporaries, many older Brits labelled networking ‘divisive, ingratiating and creepy’ despite its many successful outcomes. Luckily, 21st century folk are more realistic. They accept networking as necessary, if not intrinsic, to furthering professional, business and personal aims in order to achieve success on as many levels as possible.
Some people think that understanding the complexities of networking is important but, put simply, networking is just about meeting new people, engaging in meaningful conversations and offering mutual assistance.
Steve Kettle: The Curry Club
Steve Kettle is an expert networker who, since 1996, has been involved with the Curry Club and attracts over 40 guests monthly to Thursday lunchtime gatherings in local Asian eateries. Steve explains, “Networking fits my personality – it’s right up my street. I’m a people-person and love building companies, creating corporate events and connecting people. I’ve met thousands over the years and manage to remember nearly all their names! Originally, my Curry Club clients paid mainly in cash on the door. Now, we have a streamlined online pay-in-advance set-up. It’s a seamless business model and web-booking system which we have extended throughout the country.”
Steve’s Networking Tips
Don’t underestimate the potential of this business lunch – it leads to more business connections.
Prepare yourself, look smart, bring relevant literature, pamphlets and business cards. Make the networking event your business development day for generating new leads.
Arrive early to speak to as many people as possible during the pre-lunch hour drinks. Log other attendees’ details, cards and emails and the next day, follow up on everyone and everything you can.
Break all English politeness taboos and shout about yourself – without boasting. Be factual and confident in your manner, adding something like: ‘We’re honorable, we’re good communicators, we aim to deliver on time and are proud of how we do business.’
After the meal and meeting, note the date of the next event. Don’t rush back to the office but stay around for at least 20
minutes. You’ve greater chances now of connecting with the people you couldn’t meet beforehand.
Steve shares: “It’s easy for me to encounter new people but some folk are nervous and find it hard breaking into a group already engaged in conversation. Therefore, we try to soften it for them.”
Telephone: 07961 669996 / Email: hello@thecurryclubs.co.uk / www.thecurryclubs.co.uk
Lyn Cutler: Women in Business Brunch Club
Alderley Edge ten years ago, a random chat with pals led bubbly Lyn Cutler set up The Edge Events, a cutting-edge events/PR company.
Three years on Lyn added a new side to her business and from a ladies who lunch to a rebrand “Women in business brunch club” Lyn had no inkling that within seven years, its membership would multiply tenfold from 70 to a whopping 700!
Since 2018, over 80 predominantly female business owners have attended Lyn’s glitzy, five-a-year brunches in carefully selected Manchester city centre venues. And they, in turn, relish the extra footfall – so it’s a win-win!
All these networking events benefit from Lyn’s extensive experience in hospitality, PR, event management and her desire to create only the most memorable of occasions. It’s no surprise these gatherings have spawned long-lasting friendships and stable work partnerships for independent women more accustomed to operating in business alone.
Lyn comments: “Our events offer an experience as well a relaxed yet elegant and vibrant vibe! We offer pre-lunch cocktails, mocktails and nibbles before great food and, occasionally, entertainment too. To me it’s all still magical! Our events provide women with a platform to support other women, and also the opportunity to showcase their own services and brands. On the day, my team and I ensure no-one feels left out. We introduce anyone looking slightly at a loss to others as it could be someone’s first time out alone at an occasion like this.
“As for networking – it’s a given. Think about it! When you’re out for a coffee with pals, you all invariably discuss your work. And whenever you’re at a function, a ball, or any big bash, you nearly always end up handing out your cards or QR code. This is networking and it’s quite upfront and acceptable. Yes, networking has become a part of everyday life.”
Looking ahead, why not book The Edge’s WIBBC Valentine’s Party on 7 February 2025? From 1pm – 4pm
@ Lucky Cat, 100 King Street, Manchester M24 WU
Tickets £40 from trybooking.com
info@theedge-events.com / www.theedge-events.com
By Fay Wertheimer
