What's so great about networking?

On 14th March the CandoCanbe Women's Network will be meeting at The Guildford Institute on Ward Street in Guildford. Maja Pawinska Sims, director of Besparkle Ltd, will be telling us 'how your superhero can squash the gremlin in your head.'

For more details please click here. I've been to previous meetings and not only are they a good networking opportunity, they're also great fun!

The mastermind behind the Women's Network is Karen Skidmore who runs a company called CanDoCanBe. Karen helps women set up and grow home based businesses. I've had the pleasure of being coached by Karen and it certainly changed the perceptions I had of my own business!

Here's what Karen has to say about networking...

"How important is networking?When I first started out over 2 years ago, I was asked by my old work colleagues and friends and family "How are you going to get clients?" I merrily answered "Networking." I admit I had no idea what I meant by this but just "knew" it was the way forward.

Two and a half years later I am reaping the rewards of all my hard work. Networking, for me, has been integral to the brand awareness of CanDoCanBe in the local business community. Put in the time, commitment and give far more than you feel you "should" be giving and networking will give back to you ten fold.

Successful networking is being talked about when you are not in the room. Successful networking is being introduced to people who can help you at just the right time. Successful networking is feeling that you are part of a business community rather than stuck at home in front of your PC.

Networking is important. For me it is essential - yes for marketing and getting clients - but also for learning, for sharing experiences, for exchanging ideas, for help with my business vision, for meeting new people that I would never have met in my social network and, more importantly, for having fun. I wouldn't ever be without it."

I hope to see you all on 14th (well the girls that is..sorry chaps!)

Charlotte

www.charlottehunter.co.uk