Nifty networking
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These past few months, I have been on a networking frenzy, totally vocally voxed out! If it weren’t for my daily warm-lemon drink and vocal exercises, then I would have lost my voice. However, getting out there and networking is key to growing your business. Developing your business takes many forms: from design, to invoicing, to showcasing your talents. But it means nothing if you sit around and wait for jobs to roll in. Networking is another tool in your (ever-growing) business toolbox. Every person you meet can open a door. I love the idea that – through networking – you could learn something new, see an idea in a different way or just have a giggle with each and every person you come across. And these past few weeks that is exactly what I have experienced.
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Networking can be defined as “interacting with others to exchange information and develop professional or social contacts”. It should be treated as any other relationship and needs time and attention for it to grow and thrive. At times when you get out there, the interaction can feel a bit stilted, but if you set a genuine expectation that any relationship can provide you both with some positive actions you can relax and get into it. |
I do enjoy a natter (well that is good as it is my job!) but networking can be hard if you have spent a few weeks sitting at home talking to yourself (into your mic). So I took the plunge, swapped my “home clothes” for some glad rags and went to three local and regional business networking events, where businesses often meet up to have a chat and share their goods and services. I ended up not just getting to know new people but being offered complimentary theatre tickets, meeting the incoming Mayor and getting a few contacts in the video production and creative design industries. Result! When you have lots of exchanging of information amongst like-minded people in a fun environment, then I would say you are doing some Nifty Networking!