Whenever businesses fail to get value from networking events, it is nearly always because they have not prepared properly. Networking events are often dismissed as being casual meetings which are not be taken too seriously. This is a major mistake – networking is a valid marketing activity and therefore such events should be approached just like any other serious business meeting.
Good quality networking takes place at the start of an event, so it is important to arrive early. The venue must be confirmed (the actual building and room, not just the site) and the time, to ensure prompt arrival. Networking events are all about creating good first impressions, so it is necessary to understand the format of the meeting and the usual dress code – this will make sure a delegate looks the part.
Delivering a good pitch is fundamentally important, so it must be confirmed how long each delegate gets to speak and to whom (the room, a small group or one-to-one). It is wise also to understand the type of attendee who will be present, so the pitch can be tailored accordingly.
Costs must be established and finally it is vital that objectives are identified. As well as possible sales leads, delegates may wish to meet potential collaborators, new suppliers or specialist service providers. If a delegate recognises why they are going, then they can measure the outcomes.
When going to a networking event, there are a number of “must take” items. Forgetting these can result in not being able to maximise the results of the event. These are:
1. Business Cards
2. Pen & Notebook (to record details of delegates or notes from speakers)
3. Diary (so that follow-up meetings can be arranged immediately)
4. Flyers, leaflets (preferably items that other delegates can slip into their pockets)
5. Name Badge, ideally with the logo of the business
6. Notes, prompts, props
So, if a business is not getting much from its networking then they are probably not taking it seriously enough – they must prepare thoroughly, as they would for any other serious business activity.
Mike Stokes had a long exporting career and has advised new exporters since 2003. He networked prolifically to establish his own business and then in 2009 he formed his own networking group in Lincoln, The Business Club.
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We are appealing for witnesses and dashcam footage after a collision caused serious injuries to a 23-year-old man.
Just before 3.30pm yesterday (2 July), we received reports of a collision on Barholm Road in Tallington. It involved a grey BMW 335D estate, a blue BMW 116D and an orange KTM motorcycle.
The motorcycle rider, a 23-year-old man, sustained serious injuries during the collision and was taken to hospital.
If you witnessed the incident and are yet to get in touch with us, please do so. If you have any other information or dashcam footage available that may have captured the road along the A1175 at the time of the collision, get in touch.
By calling 101 quoting incident 282 of 2 July.
By emailing [email protected] quoting incident 282 of 2 July in the subject line.
If you wish to remain anonymous, you can report via the independent charity CrimeStoppers on 0800 555 111 or online.
The 2022 Destination Lincolnshire Tourism Excellence Awards are open for applications, and Destination Lincolnshire giving you the rare chance to co-create your application with Nell Barrington, a tourism awards veteran, who has helped hundreds of businesses write winning applications over the last 15 years – including national VisitEngland winners.
The Tourism Awards Masterclass is taking place on Tuesday 12 July at 11am for one-hour online. Laura Freer, Head of Marketing at Destination Lincolnshire said: “This is a golden opportunity, after years of hard work and heartache, to get your business and team recognised and rewarded.
“A well written application is key to achieving a coveted place on this year’s shortlist, and I’d encourage all tourism and visitor economy businesses who are thinking of entering – whether they are seasoned at writing award applications or not – to join us for this exclusive masterclass.
“Nell Barrington has worked with us and VisitEngland on the founding application processes of these awards, and she is perfectly placed to assist in co-creating applications that you can be proud of. This is a great opportunity for business development too – whether you are shortlisted for an award or not – discovering how to effectively apply for awards and talk up your business adds another string to your bow.
“Booking is essential and places are limited to just 35 – so be quick! This year we’ve made our masterclass available to partners and also to those who we are yet to work with for free. Call it an added bonus, after two years away from the awards circuit.
The awards masterclass is focussed on the application process, and it will spell out what the judges are looking for. You’ll learn how to make your application stand out from the local competition, helping your chances of going through to the national VisitEngland Awards in 2023.”
There are fifteen categories open for nominations from visitors attraction, accommodation providers, hospitality businesses and many more.
The deadline for nominations is July 29, with online judging starting on July 30 and mystery shopping from August 13. Finalists will be announced on Monday, August 15.
The awards ceremony will be held at the Engine Shed on October 21, and will be hosted by Lincs FM presenter, John Marshall.
The event is organised by Stonebow Media, publishers of The Lincolnite, to celebrate the best businesses in Greater Lincolnshire, alongside headline sponsors Lincoln College and Destination Lincolnshire.
We would also like to thank our other sponsors Visit Lincolnshire, Heart of Lincs, Duncan and Toplis and LNER, insight6 and EV Camel.
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