“Hi Charlie, I’d like to come along and meet you at the networking forum next week, the cost being £10 per head right? If you don’t mind me asking … what do I get for the money?” 

 ‘Fair comment Ben,’ I replied. ‘A choice of breakfast, certainly, the venue also offers delegates exclusive use of its premises.’

“OK, that’s fine. We don’t mind paying for the breakfast, although I thought you mentioned on the telephone that the networking was free?” 

 ‘Correct. The only thing you are paying for is what you consume. By coming along to the meeting you’ll find that in reality, you are absorbing much more than the great breakfast of choice.    

Ben, you will be meeting a variety of like-minded business owners, each with their own circle of contacts. You will also be the only specialist of your skills in the room and you will have an opportunity to introduce your own business.’

  “OK, Charlie, so there’s the possibility I could come away with some business?” 

‘Once your new contacts get to know you, there’s a great chance your message is discussed outside of your circle, perhaps in conversation with your next ideal client …

New business is always a possibility, it depends on who’s listening (or in the market at the time of your offer.)’

‘What else do you get for your £10?

Think about your message Ben, think … who can YOU help? It just may be reciprocal.

Networking offers an introduction to new contacts in a variety of industries over information exchange. Your allies. There’s your business’s well-being to think about. Self-esteem, confidence through the presentation, new friends also … networking is more than new business, more than a good breakfast. 

Where would you like to take your business, Ben?’

People buy from people.