Networking Group Profile: First Friday Network

• Stuart Russell
• Friday 18 January 2013

How long has the organisation been running events?

Since 2003

Where do you run your events and how frequently?

Various locations as on the site

Briefly describe your events?

The monthly meetings are free to attend and very informal – just a group of business people in a bar chatting - no lock-outs, no presentations, just networking! There are no fees or membership, just buy your own drinks.

The breakfast meetings are membership based and have a cost for breakfast. They are still very informal with the emphasis on people being able to talk to each other not be talked at by a speaker.

What do you think makes your events different?

First Friday events are fun, friendly, open and very productive. People do business with people they know and like and the best way to get to know someone is to chat to them in an informal situation where the ‘hard sell’ approach does not work. You’re not stuck with people either side of you at a meeting where you can’t move about, you’re not interrupted when you’ve just found the person in the room that you could work with, you’re just left to network!

What kinds of businesses attend your events?

Most businesses are small, often sole traders and people working from home who rely on meeting people to find referrals and work.

What is your top tip for people attending your events?

To get the most out of your networking try to find events where you feel comfortable, you will be more relaxed there and more likely to create positive contacts. Networking is about making long-term contacts and friendships. You may be lucky and meet someone who is looking for exactly what you supply and you get immediate business as a result, but most of the time networking is about developing relationships and trust. The other misconception is to see someone in the same line of business as a competitor and steer clear of them, they may indeed be someone with whom you can form an alliance!

Being successful at networking relies on a few basic techniques: confident presentation (but not being pushy), communication skills and follow-up. It is important that you give a clear message about what your business is. Be aware that the tone of your voice and your body language are part of that message as well. Don’t forget to smile! It is a good idea to vary your message, that way you won’t be bored saying it and hopefully neither will the people hearing it.

www.firstfriday-network.co.uk

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