Home » Connectors

Eppie Hutchings

Profile
Eppie Hutchings
Location
Potton
Region
East of England
URL
http://www.the-marketing-team.co.uk
Network
WIRE Southill

Running a marketing business, a children’s theatre school, a home, three teenagers and a large dog should be enough for anyone, but I am also a passionate networker, who gets a real buzz out of putting people in touch with each other for their mutual benefits. Experience ranges from full time plc board director right down to helping people plant and launch their businesses. I’m a member of several thriving networking groups, and am known for my practical appraoch to life. I love working with younger people who have a passion for business, and am currently helping my 19-year-old nephew set up his own business in my spare time.

Q&A

  • Why is networking important to make your ideas happen?

    However inspired a business idea, I have yet to see one (including my own) that cannot be improved by an extra head or several. Networking gives you access not just to plenty of business, but also many fresh perspectives on everything you do. It also gives you a circle of people who understand what it’s like to set up and run your own business, and have their own tips for success - which can be invaluable if you are used to a college or larger company environment.

  • What are your tips for hosting a great networking event?

    Know what you are trying to achieve, and share this with your guests to set reasonable expectations. Smile! Make sure you know who’s going to be there, be like a good barman - always be aware of who’s talking to who, who needs rescuing, and who is on their own and may need an introduction.

  • What are your tips on how to be an effective networker?

    Be prepared to share your ‘story’ - who you are, what you do, why you do it, where you live, even some personal stuff. This helps people establish the common ground that is the basis for all business and social relationships. Listen - actively - engage with the people you are talking to. Get everyone’s cards, and make a note of where and when you met them on the back of the card. Email or phone to follow up with those you want to develop relationships with, just to say ‘good to meet you, can you tell me more about…’ SMILE The SMILE some more.

  • What is the best connection you have made or received?

    Met an accountant at a breakfast in Stevenage, who asked me to substitute for him at another meeting in Bishop’s Stortford. The speaker at this meeting dropped out at the last minute - and I volunteered to fill in, as a result, met a consultant who wanted a good marketing resource he could call on when his clients needed help, and I have been working for him and his clients every month for the last 5 years.

  • What is your best advice to a young entrepreneur?

    Be a passionate believer in your business. Don’t be afraid to bounce ideas off people or ask for help- most business people love to be able to help - we all started somewhere! Plan. Network like crazy. Work your socks off. Enjoy!

Connect Me!

I havn't made any comments yet.

I have commented on the following questions: