Hello everyone! I'm Sean Usher from Usher Media and I had the pleasure of chatting with Keith Grover from Networking in Surrey. If you're curious about how networking can transform your local business landscape, you’re in the right place!

What is Networking in Surrey?

So, Keith, tell us about Networking in Surrey. You mentioned it’s like the “radio times of networking” for the area. Can you elaborate?

• Absolutely, Sean! When I go to networking meetings, I often get asked, “What do you do?” I tell them about networkingin surrey.co.uk which serves as a comprehensive list of all networking events happening locally. It’s a fantastic way to quickly convey what I do in a concise elevator pitch.

The Birth of an Idea

What inspired you to create this platform?

• Well, I’m a copywriter by trade, and I wanted a way to connect with clients and prospects without being just another spammy newsletter. Several years ago, I thought to myself, why not compile a list of upcoming networking events? This way, people would have a reason to open my emails and engage with my content. It took a while to get started, but once I found the right software, I was able to set up an online listing that not only serves my needs but also those of countless local businesses.

Understanding the Networking Landscape

Do you think there are too many networking events these days?

• Interestingly enough, networking is still on the rise. With around 60,000 registered businesses in Surrey and many more unregistered, there’s a significant demand for networking groups. I've identified 82 active networking groups in the area! While it might seem crowded, there’s still room for new groups, and many are popping up to cater to various sectors.

The Changing Face of Networking

Networking used to be mostly for small businesses, but now, larger corporations are jumping on board too. Accountants and solicitors have long had their networking events, but now companies see the value in hosting their events to engage with local businesses, often in their own office spaces.

Who Benefits Most from Networking?

What types of businesses gain the most from networking?

• It varies, really. Many people don’t know how to network effectively, and there aren’t many resources teaching this skill. While social media training is widespread, face-to-face networking training is scarce. This creates a gap in the market for experts who can guide businesses in leveraging face-to-face connections.

Expanding Beyond Surrey

You mentioned expanding beyond Surrey. How does that work?

• Yes, we’re already running Networking in Berkshire, for example. The idea is the same: create a platform where local businesses can connect. These niche sites allow members to meet face-to-face, which is ultimately where the magic happens in networking.

Conclusion

Thanks for the insightful discussion, Keith! Networking is evolving, and platforms like Networking in Surrey are at the forefront of this change. It’s all about creating valuable connections and fostering community growth.

Stay tuned for part two, where we’ll dive even deeper into more networking strategies!