GroForth is delighted to sponsor the first ever in-person VBC Live Business Expo and Networking Summit which takes place at the Imperial Hotel in Cork this week.
Many of GroForth’s most successful clients are highly effective networkers so we know from first-hand experience how networking can help to improve a business’s bottom line. We are delighted to sponsor the VBC event which will provide networking opportunities for up to 200 business people. Our co-sponsors are Fifo Capital, Morgan McKinley and Target Integration. All proceeds from the event will go to the Crann Centre, Cork which supports people with neuro-physical disabilities.
What is VBC?
VBC—Virtual Business Collaboration—is a networking group founded by GroForth Operations Director Paul Murphy in 2021. Based in Cork, it has members all over Ireland and focuses on helping small businesses grow and develop.
Why network?
When you have a good network, there is always someone you can contact if you run into problems or need advice, says Paul.
“Tapping into the knowledge and skills of your peers is one of the key benefits of networking but getting out and about and meeting people is also a great way to keep up to date with what’s happening. It stimulates new ideas and helps identify opportunities that support business development.”
What if you’re too shy to network?
While not everyone is a natural networker, most of us can improve our networking skills by attending relevant business events like VBC’s Live Expo and Networking Summit.
Practical steps to improve your confidence include doing some homework before attending an event. Think who will be there, who you would like meet and why. Practice how you will introduce yourself and then, at the event, make notes to remind yourself of any conversations that you have. Remember to bring your business card (and digital business card if you have one). After the event, follow up promptly, whether by a phone call, email or connecting on LinkedIn.
Networking in 2022
With inflation, the energy crisis, staffing and supply chain difficulties, higher interest rates and digitalisation impacting everyone, networking is more important than ever in the current trading environment. While it can be difficult to attend in-person events when you have lots of other demands on your time, it’s worth remembering that the connections formed at networking events can deliver tangible benefits for your business — whether that’s cost-saving, collaboration or business development opportunities. Networking is also a great way to stimulate your own creative thought processes. It’s good for the mind!
For more information on improving your networking skills, check out our networking tips.
