Business Networking

Finding Network Partners

Many businesses find networking partners through

• personal introductions by an existing network member
• by contacting directly the organisation or body they're interested in

General business networks

You could speak to:

• Business Link for details/scope of local network meetings.
• A chamber of commerce for networking opportunities for members.

You can get recommendations from your business advisers, eg your bank manager, lawyer or accountant, for networking groups/organisations matching your business requirements.

Contact a trade association for your sector for details of network group meetings or open days and for information on how you can attend on a trial basis.

ACAS organises conferences, workshops and seminars for small businesses on latest developments and practices in employment issues. These are opportunities to network with other businesses and share best practices. Locate a workplace training or seminar in your area on the ACAS website.

Skills and training networks

Talk to the learning and skills council (LSC), which provides advice and funding, eg for work-based training and workforce development, and may have links with local educational or skills providers. Find your local learning and skills council on the LSC website.

Seek advice on training and skills for your business and on suitable networking partners from a sector skills council (SSC). SSCs are employer-led organisations specialising in identifying skills needs for different sectors. Download information on Skills Sector Councils from the Sector Skills Development Agency (SSDA) website (PDF).

It's a good idea to attend trade conferences and seminars to meet employer-participants with similar businesses. You can gain useful knowledge through talking to the training providers or conference coordinators.

Contact Business Link or your local chamber of commerce for advice on your needs and joint skills development activities or initiatives. Find your local Business Link or find accredited and approved Chambers of Commerce at the Chamber Online website.