Features / Networking
Networking Bristol style
‘You have to network to get work’, so the old adage goes. Indeed, the opportunity to make connections over wine and canapes has proven fruitful for countless business owners.
But a new wave of professionals is shaking things up in true Bristol fashion, by stepping outside of the restraints that once governed the traditional world of business to explore new ways of collaborating.
From countryside hikes, to casino catch-ups, vegan get-togethers and mums’ meetings, the modern world of networking is starting to look decidedly diverse. Those in the loop say the shift is benefiting not only the individuals, but the city and beyond.
Countryside walks are just one way in which professionals are doing networking differently
Lisa Evans, founder of vegan business Bristolmade, said she found networking events hugely helpful as the owner of a startup company, but it quickly became apparent that some of her business ethics and principles didn’t fit with what was on offer.
She set up the Vegan Business Network Bristol and hasn’t looked back.
“As a conscientious vegan establishing a business, I always value the opportunity to support other vegan businesses, which is what led me to set up the networking Facebook group,” says Lisa.
“Not only is it a way to meet vegans in business, but a chance to share highs and lows with people of like-minded values, giving the possibility to refer and share business in a vegan community.
“There are still many traditional networking groups and events, which are still of great value to those involved, but with the rise of social media, it’s become beneficial to network in more industry-targeted groups.”
Lisa Evans
Lisa points out that aside from the business possibilities posed by networking events, they also offer a valuable chance for people who often work alone to socialise and trade ideas with others.
While people are increasingly seeking to create a work routine that fits around their home life, it stands to reason that networking events should do the same, and this has given rise to the likes of Bristol’s hugely successful Freelance Mum group, where parents meet, often with their children in tow.
Richard Freke
Richard Freke of H2R Selection and Tom Garland of Arobase Creative were embracing the heady heights of the Four Peaks Challenge when they had a brain wave for an alternative, al fresco take on the traditional networking event.
Billed as a unique and healthy event designed for business professionals that love the great outdoors, the Met Walking event they launched now takes place every third Wednesday of the month in the South West.
“As small business owners, we know that a majority of people are often sat at their desks for long periods of time,” explains Richard.
“Getting out walking in the fresh air and discovering new places is not only exciting, but it’s vastly important to productivity and well-being. Plus you get to make amazing connections and we know that lots of business has been done across our first four events.”
Simon Martin
This more holistic approach to achieving business goals isn’t stopping at the individual either, and Simon Martin, strategy and campaigns manager at Triodos Bank says there has been a gradual shift away from self-promotion towards a focus on collaboration for mutual benefit.
“Because a 21st Century economy is rooted in an eco-systems approach to organisational management, there’s greater recognition that networking is more than about just ‘me’ and ‘you’, but also other social and economic factors that are at play.
“As a result, businesses and individuals increasingly are looking for authentic partnerships that can help address change through the power of networks. Certainly, what has traditionally been labelled ‘business networking’ is giving way to a longer-term and fluid process of ‘creating networks’ and collectively realising their value.
“At Triodos, we recognise the power of these networks as movements to create positive social and environmental change. When networks emerge out of commonly held values – both business and personal values – collaboration can unleash massive potential. Our Triodos Good Morning Breakfasts enables the face-to-face interactions that can form the foundations of these growing values-based networks.”
Many still find more traditional networking events fruitful for their business
Read more: The rise of alternative finance
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