ABC Networking

I run an organization called ABC Business Club and it’s designed not only as a way of making new connections with like minded business owners, but also as a semi support network.

We therefore encourage members to discuss issues that affect their business and see if others have experienced similar issues and how they resolved them

Why did you start up your network? Having been chairman of many ‘traditional’ networking organizations such as BRE and BNI, I found that their emphasis on referral business was too strong, and they seemed to miss the opportunity to embrace long term partnerships between business as a way of adding value to dynamic entrepreneurial businesses.

The best connection(s) I have made are those with companies which I now use as an extension of my own business.

After meeting them and building the long term relationship, they have become partners in the services I offer to other businesses. This allows me to broaden the scope of my own business without the need for additional staff or resources.

Allow people to be relaxed. Allow them to feel that the meeting is offering them something that is a little different from the norm and let them offer the lion’s share of the input to the meeting.

If ideas flow naturally then the meeting will be full of energy and be beneficial to all parties involved.

Other people are the best networking links. Let them attend your groups and allow them to engage with the participants and they will automatically feel able to recommend other people, other services and other networks.