Networking can be a daunting prospect...

Hey All! For those of you that know me you will already know that just over 2 years ago - I started networking for the first time mostly in Property circles after finding Progressive.

Before that I was a shy retiring type that found it extremely daunting to walk into a room full of people that i didn't know! (Sound like you or someone you know??)

Don't worry we have all been there.. I started off attending a few meetings, getting there just before they started, staring at my phone a lot, spending most of the networking break in the toilet and then making my excuses and leaving as soon as i could! This is the wrong way to go about networking!

I decided to go nuclear on my networking very quickly.. And agreed to host an event! That's a sure fire way to scare yourself out of being nervous!

There are over 18,000 people in this community and we know that less than 10% of your attend regular networking events! While they are not for everyone they can be an amazing source of information and knowledge.. and potentially lead to some interesting JV's and potentially your future business partner.

So here are a few tips to make networking more enjoyable and less daunting for any newbies!

1. If you are totally new then get in contact with the Host or someone involved in the event - before the event. You will then have a connection and someone to approach when you arrive.

All the hosts and team members that I know are very welcoming and would be more than delighted to show any new networkers.. Or new to that event around and introduce you to a few people as well to get you started!

2. Turn up early.. Some people come early, some people stay late. If you are new to networking i would always suggest getting there early. A Lot of connections seem to be made before the event, with people then seeking out those they wish to speak to in the networking break or at the end.

3. Business cards. DONT WORRY... you don't need to have the best, smoothest, shiniest business cards - especially if you are new to the game... I would suggest getting something printed with your contact details on to start with. Name, Phone and email - most people you meet will like something to take away. When you get into you business a bit more you can get business specific ones printed to share!

When you are ready though if you are trying to look professional, please drop the @gmail.com @hotmail.com email addresses and get a proper domain - cheap and easy to setup this just makes you seem more established!

4. Don't 'Fake it until you make it'. Just be honest with the people you meet. We all started somewhere and Potential JVs and people you meet love to hear where you are starting from - and where you are going. With most information in the public domain these days Faking it could lose you potential investors if they check up on what you have told them!!

5. Ask questions. The only way you are going to learn is to ask what people do.. But also listen to their responses. You will benefit the most by listening to some of the experienced in the room.

6. Dont be a pushy networker! we have all seen these, running round the room at the end of the night giving out business cards to everyone... DON'T be one of these and focus on creating genuine connections with people that you think can help you.

7. Find someone knowledgeable in the room in what you want to do - that you can talk to and see if they can provide the advice you need to get you started.

8. Make notes during the speaker. Some of the speakers deliver so much content. Take notes on what you hear that you think will be useful too you as by the time you have networked and listened it may all be a lot to take in!

From the event I host - I have met some amazing people, Lots in this community. I have found 2 JV partners from different streams and I have learnt an incredible amount of knowledge from just being in the room with the speakers that we have.

I love going for coffee and will make time to have coffee or talk to anyone that wants more information, or a follow up after our event.

To find your nearest Progressive event check here:

https://progressivepropertynetwork.co.uk/

(**Please note that other networking events are available**)