To network, or not to network?
There are many ways to improve your business, most of which are considered to be behind a screen. Networking events can be an unknown area for some companies but attending these events and meeting other professionals, learning about different industries and building relationships can be a great way of building your business. From business gatherings to a coffee and a chat. Whatever they may be, get to know your neighbours!
So, how does it work & what are the benefits?
Connecting with people offline is one of the most valuable and efficient ways of building genuine relationships. It’s natural to be more comfortable behind a screen, however great connections are built both in person, and online. Talking face to face allows you to receive immediate feedback, you can learn to read body language and you might even find you have something in common!
Top Tip: try to be yourself, it increases your chances of connecting with the right people.
Networking events allow you to communicate effectively with like-minded people. Listening and learning from people will improve your communication skills and how you take on information. You might find that specific speakers during networking events will interest you more than others which will allow you to take on valuable advice on how to progress towards your goals.
You will likely meet people from various different industries and whether they’re similar to you or not, they will give you an insight into what they do and could also offer some advice on progression. Listening to ideas from those who have been successful in an industry gives you a great opportunity to learn, especially if you are a new business or you have recently joined a business.
Connecting with people offline is one of the most valuable and efficient ways of building genuine relationships. It’s natural to be more comfortable behind a screen, however great connections are built both in person, and online. Talking face to face allows you to receive immediate feedback, you can learn to read body language and you might even find you have something in common!
Top Tip: try to be yourself, it increases your chances of connecting with the right people.
Networking events allow you to communicate effectively with like-minded people. Listening and learning from people will improve your communication skills and how you take on information. You might find that specific speakers during networking events will interest you more than others which will allow you to take on valuable advice on how to progress towards your goals.
You will likely meet people from various different industries and whether they’re similar to you or not, they will give you an insight into what they do and could also offer some advice on progression. Listening to ideas from those who have been successful in an industry gives you a great opportunity to learn, especially if you are a new business or you have recently joined a business.
Networking often takes place in the morning (normally before 9am) so they don’t interrupt your core working day. If you are able to, attending an early morning networking event and then finishing work earlier might be a good way to stay refreshed. Talking to local businesses and seeing what networking groups they attend is a great way of getting a good idea on whether networking would be right for you and if it is, what one to join.
Not all networking events will require you to be smartly dressed and stand up in front of everyone for a presentation. The type of networking group you join will probably depend on what you want out of it. This means you can visit a few and then decide what one to join when you’re ready.
Overall, networking is a great way to get yourself out and about, as well as gaining awareness for your business. We are part of multiple networking groups here at Lighthouse Personnel and we’d highly recommend joining one that suits you.