Business Networking Bristol

Businessmen and women meet for Breakfast to Network in Bristol

Surfing the net I came across some interesting statistics and advice for networking for success in business.

Only 15% of the people we've surveyed have the network they need to accomplish their goals. But gaining these talents to develop a successful network is fairly straight forward. Once mastered, the skills will stay with you for life. As will the contacts that you make. Gaining the confidence to be a successful networker can be gained by a little bit of study and some experience.

Learn the rules and tools for creating, cultivating, and capitalizing on networking relationships and opportunities in a variety of business, professional, and social settings.

Regulary attending Business Networking groups and listening to other people will help you develop great relationships, make the most of your time, find business partners and mentors, develop the confidence in your business, control conversations towards positive outcomes, understand the benefits of all membership clubs, be the person who people want to talk to, accelerate your business success and know when the time is right to make the sale or pass an difficult client by.

With less money in circulation, many SMEs are feeling the pinch but joining a business networking group can be a diversely rewarding experience.

There are tens of thousands of business associations and groups including professional networking groups, chambers of commerce (C. of C.) industry specific associations, and citizen/service organizations such as the Rotary and Lions Clubs.With so many business associations and networking groups it can be a maze trying to find one that fits your bill- what's the difference between the Chambers of Commerce and the Rotary Club? The purposes of these groups vary; some work to further the exchange of referrals, while others promote the interests of members, share knowledge, and give back to the community.The bed rock of these clubs differ; giving and receiving leads maybe the mainstay of some groups, whilst others concentrate on the support of each member with advice and collaboration. The unifying element of these groups is the progession of business by development and understanding of each member. Over 90% of entrepeneurs understand the usefulness of business networking and memebership of clubs.

Real Business Networking vs. Virtual Networking

Who can say where social media and virtual networking (Facebook, Plaxo) will take us in the coming years? It must be a good thing for business but don't overlook the benenfits of networking in the real world.

66% of small to medium sized businesses network in person twice a fortnight.

38% say the activity is now crucial to the success of their business, and it seems they're prepared to devote money as well as time in the pursuit of an ever-expanding network.

Even though sites like Linked In have a free version, 25% invest over £999 on business clubs whilst many more will invest up to £500.

There is much evidence that real world networking can pay off in abundance- why else would business owners renew their membership year after year?

It's not just about getting referrals but about building relationship, gaining confidence, spearheading your business plans and learning new skills.

Business Networking Bristol
Business for Breakfast is a networking group for SMEs who want to benefit from the exchanges of experience with other members. Call Rodger Scott on 07710617751