Networking ? what?s in it for me?

Not that long ago if you had asked me to go and ?network? with 25 business women, my response would have been ?I would rather stick pins in my eyes!? I was used to working in a male-dominated environment where there was a distinct lack of support between working women. It was just easier to be ?one of the lads?.

Breaking free from the 9-5

I made the bold move of starting my own business, a little under three years ago. Many people advised on the importance of networking, but I couldn?t get past the thought of walking into a huge room and nobody talking to me.

On my first day as a Sole Trader, I took the bull by the horns and attended my first women?s networking meeting. Guess what? I survived! I would even go as far as saying I relaxed and enjoyed myself.

I discovered that when women are doing something they believe in and are passionate about, they are not only interesting to talk to; they genuinely want to help and support you in being a success.

Some of the most inspiring networkers make you feel like you are the only person in the room. They seamlessly introduce you to a number of people with effortless style, as though they had known you for years.

As a result of networking, I have generated business, been asked to speak at a number of events and evenings and created a support network of fascinating and inspiring women in business.