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TIPS + ADVICE
So what is a typical networking session at Boss Babes Networking like?
Networking is defined as "the practice of building relationships with people and businesses to exchange information and resources."
And that's not wrong.
It IS an effective way to connect with new people and share your business with them which can lead to your services being used.
However, it is SO MUCH MORE than that too.
Boss Babes Networking was designed to ensure that even if you are attending networking for the very first time, you'll feel welcomed, supported and encouraged from the moment you step through the door.
One of the key reasons for that is all the other women who are attending too. Having run these groups for eighteen months, it is clear that the women who attend Boss Babes do so with EXACTLY the right attitude and with a warm and friendly smile on their face.
guaranteed sales from your first meeting. It can happen of course, but the more you attend, the more likely others are to get to know you and what you're about, and so either work with you themselves or feel happy to recommend you to others.
clique-y. The session includes whole group time as well as opportunities for 121 chats, so there won't be a moment for you to feel isolated or alone. If anxiety is an issue, whilst I can't promise you won't feel it, I can assure you that not only will there be someone else in that room feeling EXACTLY the same (myself included, at times!) that by the end of the session you'll feel a whole lot more confident in yourself and in attending networking overall.
formal. You don't have to dress like a Kardashian to be a Boss Babe, that's for sure! You can wear what you want, attend when you can, and you won't be expected to brag about your six figure salary (unless you want to, and then you'll get our full support!). No lengthy pitches or presentations either - just a short introduction and greeting with the group, and the majority of the session is spent either listening to others or chatting informally over a cuppa.
A QUICK CHECKLIST OF WHAT BOSS BABES ISN'T...
A QUICK CHECKLIST OF WHAT BOSS BABES IS...
for both start-ups and seasoned professionals. It doesn't matter how long you've been running your business for or how 'successful' it is. There is no reason to bring your imposter syndrome along, although you'd be surprised how many women in the room would share that sentiment with you! Boss Babes is for every woman who works for themselves and is a great way to get feedback, advice and encouragement whatever stage you're at.
a way to make friends. Regular attendees have formed bonds that have spilled over from professional to friendly, as well as forming effective collaborations, running joint workshops together and meeting up with their kids - because we are all more than just a job title.
your own girl gang of marketing cheerleaders. Women empower women, and women support women. We are nurturers and helpers at heart, and that's always apparent at Boss Babes - tagging on social media, referring clients, making suggestions for the best app to use... it happens even after that very first meeting. The kindness of strangers really is a thing.
WHAT TO DO AT YOUR FIRST MEETING
1) Come along wearing a smile - that's really all you need to make positive first impression.
2) Bring your business cards/leaflets - it's a great way to ensure people can connect with you after the session.
3) Don't go too heavy-handed with the sale pitches - if someone is asking direct questions about your services, by all means let them know more. But we all know how it feels to have someone try to sell you something when you aren't in the arena to buy, and it can become awkward. Instead focus on getting to know the woman in front of you, what you have in common, and take it from there.
4) Embrace those in the same line of work as you - it can feel gutting to discover that someone else in the room offers the same service/product as you. However, you are BOTH entirely unique women and competition is just a myth. Instead see if there is the chance to collaborate or refer - it may be that one of you has a niche or specialism the other doesn't.
5) Make sure you have water or money to purchase a drink - sessions tend to be heavy on the chat, so you're going to want to ensure you have something to drink! Both in-person locations offer a range of tea, coffee and juices.
Essentially, networking is not one thing, it's many things!
And it can be whatever you want it to be.
But what it ALWAYS is and will be is friendly...
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