Monday 22nd March 2010 - Published by Kelly Jackson - Communications Executive
Start the Day the Business Way in Staffordshire
Top networking event Business for Breakfast is set to make its debut in Staffordshire - the event is set to be a regular fixture at the Best Western Stoke-on-Trent Moat House Hotel at Festival Park, Stoke-on-Trent on Thursday mornings from 6.45am to 8.30am, and at the Hatherton Country House Hotel, Penkridge, on Tuesday Mornings from 6.45am to 8.30am. The first chance Staffordshire business people will get to share a breakfast with other entrepreneurs will be at the Moat House on April 15th.
Business for Breakfast is run by Stuart Walton, who started the company as a way to connect local businesses. “It’s a well known fact that a business referral generates 80% more results than a cold call and that approximately 70% of all jobs are found through networking,” explains Stuart, “Now, more than ever, business people need to get out there and network with other like-minded individuals – it’s vital as a means of supplementing your marketing efforts, meeting useful new contacts, and improving your order book. It’s also a relaxed and informal event and we have our mascot Ted the Bear helping things along!”
So what are Stuart’s tips for first-time networkers? “It might sound obvious, but you have to be approachable and talk to people – you also need to be prepared and be able to sum up your business effectively in 60 seconds. At the event, be aware of your body language and try and adopt an open and approachable posture to attract others to talk to you. Show interest in others and don't just start talk about yourself - ask lots of open questions to encourage conversation. Networking is all about building up long-term relationships so after the event, make sure that you follow up with any contacts you have made and suggest a meeting where you can both find out more about each other’s businesses.”
Anybody wanting more information on Business for Breakfast can call Stuart on 0845 1990 364 0r 07706 161 851 or email stuart.walton@bforb.co.uk. Potential business breakfasters can also follow the fun on Twitter with Ted The Bear @TedTheBforBBear.
Ross, Claire & Melissa From Best Western Stoke-on-Trent With Ted The Bear
