Business Networking

Be an Active Participant in Networks

Networks are established for collective benefits and are most successful and effective where there is give and take by participants and members.

This involves sharing your experience through dialogue and interaction with other partners, as well as learning from theirs. For instance, you could attend debates and discussion groups to contribute your ideas and experiences or offer to speak at a conference.

A network's strength in any particular area or service depends on how actively its partners exchange information with each other and reciprocate. For example, if you receive advice from a network partner, be prepared to offer your own help in the future.

Partners who are willing to pass on skills to each other will establish the network as a centre of excellence or expertise and facilitate future collaborations. If you have been pleased with a particular supplier, training provider or consultant, let your partners know why or arrange for them to give a presentation of their services.

A well-run network will thrive if its participants play an active role in keeping the network topical and relevant. If you have experienced the benefits of a network consider any other contacts who would enjoy them - talk to other businesses about what you have gained and introduce them to the network.

Read an article on networking effectively on the Small Business Success website.