When you run your own business as a solopreneur, wearing all the hats, or you work as part of a small team, networking isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential.
It’s easy to think you can build a thriving business from behind your laptop, but sooner or later, you’ll hit a ceiling. That’s when connections, collaborations, and community step in to take your business further than you could alone.
Why networking matters for solopreneurs and small businesses.
Talking to other business owners can spark new ideas and uncover solutions you may not have considered. You will gain fresh perspectives from the wider community and learn from others.
Every introduction you make is an opportunity for someone to remember your name when they (or someone they know) needs your service. Your business visibility depends on it!
We all know that running a business can be lonely. Networking is the perfect way to introduce yourself to like-minded people who understand the challenges and wins you face daily in business and life. At Socially Shared, we’ve seen great friendships form and incredible collaborations get off the ground.
“There is no tool for development more effective than the empowerment of women.” Kofi Annan
You grow through referrals. People buy from people they know, like, and trust, and recommendations from trusted connections carry real weight.
The local advantage.
At Socially Shared, our area hosts offer eleven areas across the West Midlands, Warwickshire, Northamptonshire, and Leicestershire, allowing our attendees and members to choose the ones that best fit their busy schedules. However, there’s a lot to be said for building connections in your own area.
When you network locally, you become part of a trusted community where word-of-mouth travels fast. This allows you to meet people who can collaborate with you on projects, events, or cross-promotions right in your own neighbourhood.
Those follow-ups and face-to-face coffee catch-ups are easy to arrange and allow you to support your local independent coffee shops, strengthening community relationships faster. Support and get supported by your local economy, and that goodwill often comes back to you in unexpected ways!
Before you go networking, set your intentions.
Networking isn’t about walking into a room and collecting as many business cards as possible. It’s about creating meaningful connections. Before you attend an event, think about what you want to achieve for you and your business.
What are your networking goals? Do you want to meet potential collaborators, find suppliers, or raise your profile? Maybe you just want to connect with like-minded business owners for social or wellbeing reasons?
“One of the most courageous things you can do is identify yourself, know who you are, what you believe in and where you want to go.” Sheila Murray Bethel
Before you go, prepare your introduction. Socially Shared aren’t about 60-second pitches. At our networking events, you get to introduce yourself and your business in a relaxed way. However, it’s always helpful to be ready to explain what you do in a clear, friendly, and engaging way. Bring business cards (or a QR code) and make it easy for people to connect with you later.
While you’re there, be sure to engage and listen. Most networks have speakers who are experts in their field and offer pearls of wisdom. Be curious. Ask open questions and focus on learning about and from others rather than pitching.
Our favourite top tip when it comes to networking is to listen more than you talk! People remember how you made them feel, not just what you said. Remember to be approachable. A warm smile and open body language go a long way.
After the event, be sure to follow up.
We all love the buzz of an event, the conversations and laughter, but the magic of networking happens after the event, when you nurture those new connections. Here are a few tips to help with the follow-up:
- Send a quick message or email saying it was great to meet them.
- Connect on LinkedIn or social media.
- Suggest a follow-up coffee or call if there’s potential to work together.
- Keep the conversation going. Relationships take time to grow.
Ready to make networking work for you?
If you’re in or around Banbury, we’d love you to join us at our brand-new Banbury area networking group. It’s your chance to meet supportive, inspiring business owners right on your doorstep.
Join us on Wednesday 3rd September at our Banbury session, where Jenny McDonald from The Food Freedom Fairy, will be showing you how to make meaningful connections that actually grow your business and feel good doing it!
Tickets are available here: https://sociallyshared.co.uk/events/#!event/2025/9/3/banbury-socially-shared-make-networking-work-for-you
In this session, you will leave with practical tools, confidence boosts, and a whole new perspective on networking, including how to connect with intention, start conversations that matter, and build relationships that bring real results.
Feel Supported in Your Business with Socially Shared
Interested in joining the Socially Shared Women’s Business Support Network? Our affordable annual membership starts from £99 and includes many benefits to help your business thrive. Find out more via our website.
What does the membership include?
- Online Business Directory Page
- Unlimited Event Directory Listings
- Members Only Facebook Group
- Members Only Free Events
- Two Free Guest Passes
- Discounted Meetings
- Discounted Tickets For Special Events
- Discounted Advertising Opportunities
- Quarterly Members Only Newsletter
- Quarterly Maximising Membership
- Priority For Speaking Opportunities
- Personalised Membership Badge
“Karen and her area hosts run a fabulous in-person networking group serving the women in business over the West Midlands, Warwickshire and wider region. Finding a supportive network when you are a woman in business is a must! I feel very fortunate to also be able to collaborate with Karen and Socially Shared in running collaborative women’s network events – Collaboration over competition is our shared ethos.” Sharon Louca, Women’s Business Network
