A Great Story to Be Told: Rethinking Networking

Networking is one of those things most sensible people approach with a touch of dread. For many, it conjures up images of crowded rooms where everyone stands up in turn to deliver the same sales-heavy pitch, only for the details to be forgotten an hour later.

Personally, I’ve never enjoyed that kind of environment. I don’t like being sold to — and I don’t believe most people do either.

Real success in business isn’t built on a clever pitch; it’s built on trusted relationships. It’s built on understanding someone’s needs, offering a genuine solution, and delivering more than you promised. That’s what creates repeat business, referrals, and long-lasting partnerships.

Where Two or Three Are Gathered… There’s a Real Networking Opportunity

People buy people.

What’s the point in launching into a rehearsed pitch when you don’t even know the person in front of you? Too often, that simple truth gets forgotten at networking events.

Effective networking starts with curiosity — Who are you? What do you care about? What are you facing?
The moment you drop the script and focus on the person, not the pitch, is the moment a real connection begins.

Support Your Community — The Best Networking Happens When You’re Not Trying to Network

One of the most powerful ways to meet like-minded people is to get involved in your community.

Support a local charity. Volunteer at an event. Turn up for a fundraiser. Lend a hand.
You’ll meet people from all walks of life, each with their own story, challenges, and motivations.

A conversation over coffee, a quick chat about the weekend’s football results, or a shared laugh about holiday mishaps — these small moments build empathy. They turn strangers into contacts, and contacts into relationships.

When people discover I work in adult social care — supporting individuals to remain independent in their own homes — almost everyone has a personal connection or experience to share. And when they learn about the values and ethos behind Friends Helping at Home, it often surprises them in the best possible way.

Over the last eight years we’ve built relationships that have stood the test of time. Some of our service providers have been with us since day one. A sustainable, values-driven approach creates a profitable business — but more importantly, it creates a meaningful business that genuinely improves lives.

And that’s a great story to tell.

Create Natural Environments for Conversation

The best networking doesn’t feel like networking at all. It’s relaxed, natural, and human. I’ve met wonderful suppliers and partners at events, but I’ve also met them in much less expected places.

Remember Why You’re There — and Follow Up

If you say you’ll follow up with someone, follow up.
Whether it’s a phone call, an email, or a quick LinkedIn message, do it while the conversation is still fresh.

You are always an ambassador for your business. Your actions — or inaction — speak louder than anything on your business card.

So… Where Do I Network?

Anywhere.

Yes, the traditional events have their place, but some of my most memorable connections have been made in lifts, at drinks receptions, or even — surprisingly — in a sauna.

It’s not about the setting. It’s about being:

• Memorable

• Relevant

• Appropriate

A casual conversation, handled with authenticity, can turn into something valuable.

Key Takeaways

• Don’t miss the obvious. Opportunities are everywhere — be open to them.

• Be a good ambassador. Your behaviour reflects your brand at all times.

• Listen well. People will tell you what they need if you give them the space.

• Enjoy networking. When you relax into it, great conversations follow.

Networking isn’t about pitching. It’s about people — and every person has a great story to tell.

If you’d like to connect, share your story, or explore how we can support one another, we’d love to hear from you.
Let’s grab a coffee and start a conversation.

Call us on 0333 202 71 71
www.friendshelpingathome.co.uk

https://www.linkedin.com/in/andrew-richardson-ceo-friends-helping-at-home-28162618/