Learning through networking with others

Different kinds of network

There are many types of network. Often they set joining criteria to take members with common attitudes or requirements, eg size of business or professional background.

You can establish links through a number of different channels. Some of these include:

• Education and research organisations - to explore development initiatives and to access studies or research into products, markets, customer preferences, best practice etc. See which organisations participate in networking on the Higher Education and Research Opportunities website.
• Learning networks - managers and other employees can attend training and development activities tailored to their responsibilities, keep up to date with best practice and current thinking, and hear from high-profile speakers and researchers. Approach relevant trade associations and industry bodies and ask them about their seminars and events.
• Trade development opportunities - find trade associations at the Trade Association Forum website.
• Employers' federations - eg the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB). You can find support and best practice on employment issues on the FSB website.
• Regional/local organisations - eg Chambers of Commerce, for advice, support and local news. Find details of regional and local organisations on the British Chamber of Commerce website.
• Community organisations - action groups representing local, ethnic or social interests. Find community organisations at the Business in the Community website.

There are also various forms of networking:

• organised meetings/conferences - structured ways of networking
• e-based discussion and debate - co-ordinated on many websites
• business trips - sponsored by a relevant trade organisation or similar can provide a coordinated way of establishing foreign contacts and learning about overseas markets
• social events - an informal way to meet people with a common purpose for attending
• survey and focus groups - allow you to meet fellow-contributors and the organisers

Subjects covered in this guide

• Introduction
• How networking works
• Benefits of networking
• Different kinds of network
• Finding network partners
• Be an active participant in networks
• International networks
• Here's how networking locally improved my business

 

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