Why we do what we do!

I am often asked about the structure of our meetings and why we do things the way we do them!!

Curious? Read on.

Arrival : the first 30 minutes is casual networking. This is a great chance to catch up with those you may not have seen since the previous meeting. It’s also a great opportunity to introduce yourself directly to anyone you haven’t previously spoken to or any new attendees. Although as hosts we welcome all arrivals and introduce them to others in the room, our regular ladies are also great at spotting new faces and will make a great effort to introduce themselves.

1) 10 MINUTE TALK : EDUCATIONAL/ MARKETING

This is a great opportunity to do a longer pitch to the whole room. It is not meant to a historical account of your profession/s but a snapshot of your current business using examples to give further insight into what you do.

One thing we delight in, is allowing a supportive opportunity for any lady who has never spoken in public before but would like to try. This 10 minute slot is perfect for that. It helps boost the confidence of the speaker, it allows an opportunity for the other ladies to get to know the speaker in a little more depth and is a great icebreaker for further conversation.

Many of our ladies have gained extra business through spotlighting themselves in this way and we often find once they have done it, they’re happy to take the spot again!!

2) ROUND THE TABLE NETWORKING

Our groups are split into 2 or more tables of smaller groups rather than one larger group.

Why??

Those who have never networked before are often nervous at speaking even for 2 minutes to the whole room. Limiting a pitch to just 2 minutes in a large group due to limited time does not give opportunity for further discussion or conversation. Unless you do the 10 minutes above, there is therefore only a limited amount of information the ladies will know about you.

In smaller groups, conversation flows and from those conversations, this is when relationships start to develop. We become curious and may want to learn more about that person and how how they can help you/how you could collaborate etc and we are therefore inspired to meet up privately.

3) INSPIRATIONAL SPEAKER

This is a 30 minute talk from either an invited guest or one of the regular ladies who has a fabulous story to tell.

One thing we are often concerned about is that we may be the only one going through a particular issue. Our inspirational speakers’ stories may well resonate with you and is it often reassuring to learn how they overcome their issues to inspire you to be able to do the same.

Sometimes the speakers may be offering a motivational talk in terms of how to work on your business/yourself, a mini workshop with or without interaction or demonstrations may also be a part of this.

We do aim to have a variety of speakers and are always on the lookout. If you know anyone (including yourself) who would be a great speaker for us please check out our website and fill in the speaker application form. www.uniqueladies.co.uk

Dawn

(Unique Ladies Groups: Preston, Blackburn and Hyndburn)