If you are like me, you will find that there is so much excitement in a networking event.
Here are the reasons why I love it.
The benefits of networking!
1. Meeting new people and new businesses
2. Making friends and supporting each other online but also off-line
3. Learning about what other people do and being able to recommend other businesses to your friends and connections
4. Bouncing off ideas and feeling inspired by what others are doing
5. Breaking the feeling of I’m alone in this, as we all go through similar challenges, which at times feel overwhelming
6. Listening to great speakers and bringing home new ideas and new ways of doing things
7. Feeling inspired and motivated
Where do I love to network?
This list is by no means exhaustive, here are some of the groups and events I have attended and networked with. Some are more formal, others are less but they all have in common the fact that they connect people, ideas and businesses.
Business networking for women with their own business or thinking about launching.
Monthly meetings, first Monday of each month, Selkirk Pub in Tooting, 8.30pm. Free to join, some events will ask for a contribution towards the running of the group.
Support and networking for parents, organises regular events with speakers on different topics.
Ticketed events and topics vary.
A group that meets regularly for social networking but also for events with speakers. Run by 2 bloggers, Vicki from Honest Mum and Maggie from Red Ted Art.
Regular events are run by the Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce, in the area and dedicated to local businesses.
Annual membership.
You can attend 2 events before deciding about membership.
Wandsworth Chamber of Commerce website
This is a more formal group with an annual membership. There are a number of WiBN groups in the area, in Clapham, in Wimbledon etc.
Monthly meetings over lunch, 2 visits allowed before making a decision about joining.
BNI has many groups operating in London and in the area and it has a very large networking base.
Weekly meeting, structured, with an annual membership.
You are allowed 2 visits before making a decision about joining.
Pizzup
If Pizza, Prosecco and dancing are your thing, this is the place for you. A great regular social event run by blogger Lorna.
I have found the NCT Capham and NCT Wimbledon great at putting together events for local mums and families.
Check out their pages for news and events.
NappyValleyNet
This is a great source of information, advice and regular chat about various topics from parents in the area. If you subscribe you can receive a weekly newsletter, with events, discussion topics & meet-up dates.
A list of businesses in the area I have recently connected to
Nicky Raby an actor, coach, writer, speaker and podcaster
Tinny Toes by Aggi London newborn & family photographer
Dinner Talks, organises dinner talks on topics delivered by members of the community (if you want to learn more contact me and I will put you in touch with the organiser).