For over a decade, Networking Chandler’s Ford has provided friendly small business networking for our local area. Compared to other networking groups, we are relatively informal but that’s what works for our members and it certainly doesn’t stop us building useful contacts and passing valuable referrals. If we had to summarise the benefits we get from being a member, we’d say it’s as follows:
Balanced Meeting Schedule
Meetings are held twice each month, striking the right balance between too frequent and not often enough, making it easier to maintain regular connections without overwhelming your schedule. (We meet on the second and fourth Tuesdays and you can find our forthcoming meeting dates here.)
Mix of Online and In-Person Options
Members can enjoy the flexibility of both online and in-person meetings, which makes it accessible and convenient for different preferences and circumstances. Some members do both, others prefer to just do one type of meeting.
Exclusivity
We only accept members who offer products or services that are significantly different to our other members. This means that everyone is our ‘resident expert’ in their own particular field. (Check out our list of current members to see if there is seat free for you. )
Welcoming for All Experience Levels
The group attracts both seasoned networkers and those new to networking or new to business, so you can feel comfortable joining regardless of your previous experience.
Structured but Friendly Format
At each meeting, every member (and visitor) gets a two-minute slot to introduce themselves and explain what kind of customers they’re looking for. This ensures everyone gets heard while keeping the atmosphere approachable.
Learning and Sharing Opportunities
Most meetings feature a 10 – 20 minute speaker session focused on delivering informative talks rather than sales pitches, helping members pick up new insights and ideas. We encourage our members to book a speaker slot, too. (Browse our blogs section to see what some of our recent speakers had to share.)
Plenty of Informal Networking Time
Before, during breakfast and after meetings, members can chat informally and build genuine relationships beyond the structured slots. (We also run ad-hoc events, like social evenings or walks, so there is the option to connect further if you join us on these, too.)
Convenient and Affordable
Meetings run from 8.00am to 9.00am, meaning they don’t interfere too much with the working day. The cost is kept budget-friendly, making it accessible for smaller businesses and start-ups. (And we ask that subscriptions are paid by monthly standing order to reduce hassle, ensuring smooth participation without frequent admin.)
Promotion and Visibility
Members are listed on the group’s website, can contribute blogs to showcase expertise and can have their events publicised in a bi-monthly newsletter sent to all members and friends of the group. (Here’s an example of a recent NCF newsletter)
Supportive Community Ethos
While most businesses are welcome, the group maintains its integrity by ensuring members align with shared values, helping create a positive, like-minded environment.
Join today!
If you are looking to widen your contacts, enjoy your networking and pick some useful business tips, NCF could be the group for you. As a visitor, you can come along twice before we ask you to think about joining (and our membership fees are currently just £10 per month). Please email us to register your interest and book in for our next meeting.
We look forward to meeting you!