Posted on by Jill Weaver

From Nervous Newcomer to Networking Convert: My Autumn of Meeting New People

Trees reflecting in the water

A British autumn isn’t usually synonymous with new growth, but this one has got off to a flying start. My network has been growing beyond all expectations, which is great news for my copywriting and proofreading business.

Stepping into the room

Until a few months ago, I’d never felt comfortable walking into a room full of strangers. Then I decided to find out what I’d been missing, and I’m now in full networking mode.

I’ve found some wonderful events along the way, and I’d like to thank the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB), CRS Editorial, 4N, Enterprise Nation and the NatWest Accelerator programme, to name just a few. And it doesn’t stop there. Over the next couple of weeks, I’m looking forward to events with Nicky Lloyd Greame, ScreenPop and SAM Networking and Marketing.

What I’ve learned so far

  • I’m enjoying it far more than I expected. I’m having a blast, which still surprises me.
  • People are generous. I’ve met some truly fabulous people who have shared their time and wisdom and opened doors I didn’t know existed.
  • Coffee chats are a bonus. My diary has never been fuller, and many of those chats have let me enjoy the last of the summer(ish) sun too.

My top tips for nervous networkers

If you’ve always been a bit apprehensive about this kind of event, as I was, here is what has worked for me:

  1. Wear something bright. People remember you after you introduce yourself.
  2. Follow up on LinkedIn promptly. Do it before you confuse who was who.
  3. Expect to meet the same people again. It really is a small world, and that’s how real relationships start to form.
  4. Bring plenty of business cards. Or work out how to use the QR share code on LinkedIn.

Impact

Meeting so many new people and business has widen my reach no end and I’m delighted to be helping more people to convey their ideas and messages neatly and correctly, through proofreading and copywriting. If you’d like some help too,  take a look at my services or get in touch. .