BLOG POST WRITTEN BY KATHRYN WALTON – EVENTS AND COMMUNICATIONS ASSISTANT
Here at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce in the UK, we understand the importance of business networking and its many benefits. Networking actively facilitates career and business growth through trading information and helps to foster long-term relationships. Resultantly, a strong network has proven to be a fundamental tool for success for many businesses. Find out how you can get the most out of networking at the Chamber with some of our top tips:
1. Familiarise yourself with other Chamber Members
One of the main benefits of the Chamber with regards to networking is that you have access to the extensive list of fellow Members via our Members Directory. We certainly recommend taking a look through and familiarising yourself with companies and their respective representatives. This will make it easier for you to encounter Member companies with mutual interests and similar values.
2. Attend events
The Chamber hosts a number of events in collaboration with fellow Members that provide insightful information as well as the opportunity to network. Keeping up to date with the latest events advertised on our website and attending them regularly will help you to build trust and establish a rapport with fellow Members. Successful and long-term networking is oftentimes a slow and steady process. At the Chamber we offer a number of events including corporate events that bring together between 250-300 senior representatives from an expansive variety of Spanish, British, and other international companies, as well as government representatives and other influential figures from both countries. What’s more, there is no better place to network than at our Meliá Business Breakfast, a monthly series where a notable guest speaker from the business or political sphere gives a briefing on a relevant topic. This event is always followed by an open discussion with participants and a networking breakfast.
3. Utilise social media
Social networking has become one of the most popular and convenient ways to connect with businesses and customers. In a technologically driven world, it is all the more important to have a regular and up-to-date social media footprint. Two of the best social media platforms to expand your network are LinkedIn and Twitter. If you don’t already have an account, our advice is to not only create one, but to stay as active as possible. It will ensure your company receives visibility and will help you to encounter a network of people that are most suited to you.
4. Consistency is key
Once you have established a rapport with other Members don’t forget to keep in contact. Again, building a long-term relationship requires consistency and follow-ups. It could be as simple as connecting with them on social media, or sharing some information that is relevant to them.