Networking is an important activity for business people, particularly those who operate in the business-to-business (B2B) space: it’s a way to establish relationships with like-minded people, to exchange ideas, share resources, and build community.
Perhaps most importantly, it enables business people to connect with potential customers, and potential business partners who share similar goals and values. These relationships can lead to direct sales, referrals, collaboration, and even long-term partnerships that can help your business grow and thrive.
One of the key benefits of being a The South Australian Business Chamber member is access to a full schedule of networking events throughout the course of the calendar year at some of South Australia’s best venues. You can see our busy event calendar on our website at https://business-sa.com/events.
Two people who are no stranger to the South Australian Business Chamber networking events are Leah Baylis of Champagne Recruitment and Kara Prichard of Mas National. Leah is a ‘power networker’ attending at least one networking event every week, sometimes two. Kara attends 2 – 3 networking events every month.
‘Networking is so important for a recruitment business like mine — it helps me cement relationships and generate trust, not only as a business partner seeking new clients, but as a recruiter who is always on the lookout for great candidates, too’, Leah explains.
Mas National is also in the employment space, supporting apprentices with employers across all industries. For Kara, strong relationships are paramount and these are often forged at networking events.
‘We offer a free service and we need to build relationships and trust with all of our stakeholders: employers, job seekers, parents of young apprentices, and schools. The stronger our relationships and networks, the stronger our business’.
‘There’s no substitution for face-to-face contact. Online conversations are OK, but it’s much better if you’re talking to somebody in person, gauging their body language and actively listening to their needs’, Kara explains.
Both Leah and Kara explain that networking activity regularly pays off for their businesses.
‘I met another Corporate Member at a the South Australian Business Chamber breakfast event. After the event, they reached out to me and we’ve become their preferred recruitment partner. I’ve made 6 – 7 candidate placements with them so far’, Leah explains.
‘With the current economic circumstances, networking has become more important than ever, particularly for recruiters. When funds are tight, businesses often choose not to use recruitment firms. So we’re really thankful for our strong relationships and the loyal customers who continue to use our services.’
Kara has seen similar benefits, with one the South Australian Business Chamber ‘speed networking’ event helping her secure two new clients.
‘The South Australian Business Chamber events have been great — the intimate boardroom lunches provide an opportunity to share information about our business, to hear from others, and to build genuine connections; and the bigger monthly Chamber networking events enable us to mingle and meet many new business people in a short space of time. I love the 1‑minute business pitches and the fun, relaxed vibe of these events’.
Whilst Leah and Kara are now seasoned networkers, they recognise that networking doesn’t come naturally to some people. Leah has come to enjoy networking after a shaky start.
‘I was petrified to start with — I was like a stunned mullet at events. Networking doesn’t come naturally to me and initially I was very nervous and got the shakes. For those who don’t feel comfortable networking, my advice is to persevere because it gets easier over time.’
Kara also understands how it can be daunting for non-networkers to get started.
‘I’d recommend that you take a ‘buddy’ the first time — a person to act as your ‘wingman’. Also, it’s a good idea to set yourself a goal — work out who want to connect with before you go’.
‘The great thing about the South Australian Business Chamber events is that everybody makes you feel so welcome. It’s a non-threatening environment and there are plenty of helpful people to make sure that you have a great experience’, Kara explains.
When asked about their favourite networking venues in Adelaide, Kara is quick to respond: ‘I love the wineries — Mitolo, Beresford, Glen Ewin, Patritti — and learning about the rich family stories behind them. But I’m happy to network anywhere!’
And how about their favourite tipple whilst networking?
With her tongue planted firmly in her cheek, Leah replies: ‘Rum and Coke’, before adding: ‘no, it’s a champagne of course — why else would I call my business Champagne Recruitment?’. Kara likes champagne, too.
Irrespective of your choice of drink, the South Australian Business Chamber networking events represent a great opportunity to build relationships, discover potential new business partners, and to win work. Investing time and effort into networking can open doors and help you take your business to the next level.
To attend the South Australian Business Chamber’s networking events, become a member today.
