Networking, and not a suit in sight!

By Sophie Dyer from Sophie Dyer-Thinking Partner and SBV Leicester West Host

Until October 2023 I had avoided going to any in person networking events. Not even one.

I’d pretty much decided that although I’d been told that I really should be networking, my business would have to survive without them.

Why?

Because the only ones that I found advertised near me seemed to be very definitely not for me. A brunch meetup for the property sector – um no, not my sector. Investors breakfast networking – again no, not an investor. 5.30pm drinks and mingle – clearly meant for employees working a 9-5 in town. What they all have in common is attracting a group of extrovert men in suits, and that’s not me at all.

Yet, I had found online networking groups that were friendly and welcoming. Full of women like me, starting up their own business and looking not just for sales but also support and community.

When Claire and Colette asked me to host a Small Business Vibes group in Leicestershire, I jumped at the chance. Here was the networking that I wanted to attend and the opportunity to find other local ladies who would appreciate the same kind of business community. This networking is literally made for me.

A networking event designed for women at whatever stage of their business journey – from launch phase to 20+years’ experience.

Women who are serious about making sales and building successful businesses but understand it’s OK to have fun and enjoy the process.

Women who can show up as they want to be seen, not restricted to a corporate uniform.

Women who share their knowledge and cheer your growth and success.

I’ve gone from ‘never in a million years’ to a cheerleader for women’s business networking because when you find your tribe – it’s easy!