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Chapter ten: Networking

Networking is an important activity for new small business owners.

It’s a way to connect with and learn from other business owners, meet useful experts and connect with potential customers or clients.

In addition, launching your own small business can be lonely, so attending events can also help you deal with feelings of isolation, tackle imposter syndrome, and benefit your mental health.

To find networking events to attend, your options include:

  • joining business groups, networking organisations, and trade associations
  • searching event listings websites such as Eventbrite, Find Networking Events, and Meetup
  • asking fellow entrepreneurs, colleagues, or friends
  • searching on social media and asking your social media contacts
  • contacting the business support department at your local council
  • working from co-working spaces where other business owners are present.

Before going to an event, think about what you want to achieve.

If possible, try to get hold of the event attendee list and work out the key people you want to meet.

Practise your introduction and how you will describe your business.

You should be able to explain it clearly and concisely in a sentence or two. 

Prepare some business cards with your contact information or be ready to add new contacts on LinkedIn.

When speaking to people, make sure you listen as well as talk.

Don’t make the conversation all about you and your business.

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Ask questions and show interest in what they have to say. 

Demonstrate how you could potentially help them.

After the networking event, follow up promptly with your new contacts and arrange meetings if necessary.

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Whilst we make reasonable efforts to keep the information in this guide up to date, we do not guarantee or warrant (implied or otherwise) that it is current, accurate or complete. The information is intended for general information purposes only and does not take into account your personal situation, nor does it constitute legal, financial, tax or other professional advice. You should always consider whether the information is applicable to your particular circumstances and, where appropriate, seek professional or specialist advice or support.