Networking Group Profile: Netwalking Scotland

• Stuart Russell
• Sunday 4 November 2012

How long has the organisation been running events?

Since June 2010

Where do you run your events and how frequently?

Netwalks take place on Friday afternoons and – in summer - also on Wednesday evenings. We are currently focused on two regions: 1) Edinburgh & the Lothians and 2) Forth Valley. Within these regions the netwalks are quite widely dispersed, taking in for example Pencaitland, Roslin, Almondell, the Falkirk Wheel, Gargunnock, as well as several places in Edinburgh itself. There are Friday afternoon netwalks in both regions once a month, on different dates. Wednesday evening netwalks are also monthly from April to September.

Briefly describe your events?

Very informal, there are low-key introductions and a description of the route at the start, then it is a guided walk so participants are free to just chat. The netwalks generally last around 2 hours, so there is no food or drink needed but there is always a pub (or sometimes a coffee shop) at the end.

What do you think makes your events different?

It is healthy and fun – and also particularly effective for fostering the ‘meet, know, like, trust’ for effective business networking because it is so relaxed from the start; there are no business clothes or accoutrements and people are just themselves...... Also you can take the dog.

What kinds of businesses attend your events?

All kinds and sizes of businesses. However it is particularly attractive to business owners because it allows for some relaxation and exercise - but because it is also effective business networking it can be justified even in their ever-busy schedule.

What is your top tip for people attending your events?

Have fun, the rest will happen....

www.netwalkingscotland.com

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