121 meetings often take place after attending a business networking group or event. They are an informal meeting between two people with the aim of exploring synergies, reciprocal business opportunities, getting to know someone better and/or spending quality time together. When done effectively they can be very productive.

Presentation skills are an important element to have in your capabilities when looking to showcase your organisation at a business networking event. However, the confidence, knowhow, and experience to give good presentations, and to comfortably stand up in front of an audience does not come easily to everyone.

An elevator pitch is a short, simple and direct speech which is often used to provide brief details about yourself, your company, background and experience. They are used regularly in networking meetings by attendees to describe their business through a quick and concise introduction and are a way for business owners and professionals to market themselves effectively in a short amount of time.

Business networking provides a platform for local businesses to meet others who share the same profession or industry and have similar interests. By joining a group and surrounding yourself with positive and optimistic entrepreneurs, becoming part of a networking group is invaluable.

This article outlines the different types of business networking a small business can find to attend, which includes different types such as referral, business development and speed networking

If you are new to business networking, or have been doing it for decades, it is important to find ways to maximise the opportunity and make the most of you business networking group.

CPD meaning and the importance of Continuing Professional Development, the term used to describe the learning activities that professionals engage in to improve and enhance their abilities