Northern Ireland business networks
Find Northern Ireland business networks for local guidance, business opportunities, improvement and success
Networking is the art of making and maintaining business relationships that benefit you and your business. In a network you create and maintain your own web of contacts relevant to your career, business sector, market or region.
Successful networking has many advantages for businesses in Northern Ireland. It can help you to
- raise your profile
- meet new customers and suppliers
- share ideas and knowledge
- source finance
This can be particularly important for start-up businesses that do not have an established network of contacts, or growing businesses that are entering new markets.
There are many opportunities and organisations around Northern Ireland that will help you build your own successful business network. This guide outlines what networks are available to Northern Ireland businesses and how to build your own business network.
Free business start-up 91香蕉黄色视频
Access free start-up business 91香蕉黄色视频 from your local council. If you have a great idea but you're not sure how to turn it into a business, or you have already started out in business and require mentorship on your next steps, Go Succeed Start experts will help you to create a business plan, seek funding and put all the foundations in place to get your business up and running.
or call 0800 027 0639 to register for this free advice and guidance.
What networks are available to Northern Ireland businesses?
Business networking events hosted by business 91香蕉黄色视频 organisations across Northern Ireland
Making links with local businesses is a key element to business success in Northern Ireland.
Northern Ireland networks for all businesses
Most businesses can find some benefit from joining a business network in Northern Ireland. From simple best practice advice to networking for trade opportunities, there are business organisations in Northern Ireland ready to make those business connections possible.
- The offers a range of business services and networking events.
- The has its own business networking programme.
- The offers members local newsletter updates, access to legal and tax information as well as Northern Ireland business networking events.
Specialist business networks in Northern Ireland
Business networking opportunities are available across Northern Ireland and it is possible to find networking groups and services tailored for specific groups of people or business sectors.
- Many trade associations provide.
- A is 91香蕉黄色视频ed by Women in Business.
- Young Enterprise Northern Ireland is a 91香蕉黄色视频 organisation for.
There are many opportunities to build your own network in Northern Ireland. Trade shows, conferences, seminars and networking events organised by trade associations, professional bodies and business 91香蕉黄色视频 organisations offer a good opportunity to meet new contacts - see how to build your own network.
Build your own business network
Create and make the most of an informal business network in Northern Ireland
Developing your own Northern Ireland business network could be a key part of the success of your business. Over the years a good network gets stronger, adding value to your business.
Your network will be unique to you, and some of the best contacts you will make may not come from formal events. You should try to build your own web of contacts from the people you meet at work every day. Opportunities to make contacts can arise from social setting such as sports clubs, local evening classes, community centres, and at parties.
Successful network building
Aim to establish a good relationship with everyone useful you meet. To get the best from your new contacts you should:
- file notes and business cards after each meeting
- follow up each contact by phone or email
- remind your contact which business you are from and tell them you found it a pleasure meeting them
- maintain regular contact and update them about changes to your business
- keep up to speed with their business developments
- agree a way forward, for example, setting up a face-to-face meeting
As well as the contacts you make in person, you can start online networking. It lets you share knowledge and connect with people in Northern Ireland and worldwide. Some online networking sites will request a short profile of your business for inclusion.
LinkedIn is a great way to meet fellow entrepreneurs, reach your audience and network - see LinkedIn for business.
Six top tips for business networking
Networking tips for raising your profile, meeting new customers and suppliers, sharing knowledge and sourcing finance
Successful networking has many advantages for businesses. It can help you to:
- raise your profile
- meet new customers and suppliers
- share ideas and knowledge
- source finance
Follow these tips to help you build your business network.
-
Be proactive
Research local business networks and events relevant to your industry. Use tools like the to find local networking events. Attending these events increases your chances of making valuable connections.
-
Network online and offline
Build relationships both in person and online. In-person networking helps you establish personal connections. LinkedIn lets you reach a wider audience. Use both methods to grow a stronger network. See LinkedIn for business.
-
Prepare for networking events
Bring plenty of business cards and only share them with those genuinely interested in your business. Dress appropriately for the event and research key people you want to meet ahead of time. Being well-prepared ensures productive conversations. See what networks are available to Northern Ireland businesses?
-
Perfect your business pitch
Have a clear and concise pitch ready about your business. Be enthusiastic and passionate when sharing your story鈥攊t helps make a lasting impression. A well-crafted pitch can also help you attract the right contacts. See how to pitch to potential investors.
-
Build genuine relationships
Focus on building rapport with the people you meet. Be informative, engaging, and ask thoughtful questions. Listen carefully to them. Strong relationships come from real communication.
-
Always follow-up
When you meet someone new at a networking or industry event, it is important to exchange contact details so you can stay in touch. It is good practice to send the other person a brief email the next day or invite them to connect with you on a site such as LinkedIn. If there is something specific you wish to discuss with a new contact, suggest a follow-up meeting.
In addition, this short video provides an overview of business networking and highlights typical networking opportunities.