By Dave ClarkeUK Bureau Chief
Over the past couple of years the evidence is that Networking as an activity in its own right has become more mainstream in the UK. Ten years ago much networking took place as an activity alongside another main event. For example business events such as exhibitions, conferences, award dinners and the like. It could also be at some sporting event or other corporate entertainment. The local golf club has always been a hotbed of networking. For small businesses networking tended to take place alongside other activities at organizations like the Chamber of Commerce or Federation of Small Business.
As organizations have emerged with networking as the primary activity there has been a subtle shift. Over the last few years these groups have started to organize social events for members alongside the regular networking meetings. Last weekend's spring like weather in the UK saw the start of this year's 'Net Walks' in which the participants get to know each other during a pleasurable stroll in the British countryside.
A few weeks ago I spent a week skiing in the company of people I have met through networking. It was a great opportunity to get to know a few people better and there were several other heads of networks present. Warren Cass of Business-Scene, David Sumner Smith of Telegraph Business Club & Home Business Network and William Buist of Ecademy (who had their 11th birthday whilst we were away!).In this type of activity you have a real head start. You already have much in common by going on the trip in the first place so real networking takes place. The sort where it really is about building relationships first and business second. In just a couple of weeks since the trip a lot of business has been done and referred between people who have got to know each other, got to like each other and got to trust each other.
Good Networking!
Dave Clarke
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