An early morning spent Speed Networking

Maybe you’ve tried networking but have you ever been to a speed networking event? I attended my third speed networking event at the Kingsgate Centre in Peterborough on 28th January. These events are a great way to meet lots of people and pitch your business in a short space of time. The event I attended was run by the Peterborough Chamber of Commerce and as usual was completely sold out. The day started at 7:45am with the chance to chat with a few familiar faces and some unfamiliar ones over a very welcome coffee.

So, how does speed networking work? Split into three separate rounds, you have 60 seconds to pitch your business. You are given a name badge on arrival which also has a letter indicating which table you need to sit at and whether you move around or not. The great thing about speed networking over other networking events is you get to speak to every single person in the room. For this event, 38 different people and businesses to talk to. Peter Watts from the Chamber gave us a quick overview of speed networking for the benefit of those who were new to this kind of event and then the bell rang. It was at this point I realised that I had made my first mistake, I forgot to pick up a glass of water! I really should know better. I now have 45 minutes of constant talking without a drink. The bell rings every 60 seconds and the person you are speaking to then pitches to you. You then move along the table and start with someone new. Around 12 people later and we break for a delicious cooked breakfast which gives you the chance to chat at a more leisurely pace. It’s always a good idea to sit next to someone who you haven’t spoken to yet. For me it was Dawn Strange from Media Matters, a company we may work with in the future.

Breakfast is over and we’re off again, same format and I meet some really interesting people. Some of which I already know but it was chance to relax a bit and have a catch up. At least I remembered to grab some water for the second round!

The last round is slightly more relaxed. There are around 8 people that I haven’t spoken to yet and we all sit together on a round table. Again, all indicated from the letter on your name badge and everyone is in the same boat. You then have 60 seconds to pitch to everyone at the table. The event finished at around 10am taking very little time out of my working day, perfect.

Speed Networking is fast, furious but great fun and I couldn’t recommend it highly enough. It’s also noisy! Nearly 40 people all talking at once. Just remember to take plenty of business cards with you and don’t forget to take a drink with you as you move around. As with all Chamber events, they are very well organised and great value for money. The Chamber ran a speed networking event at the Hall last year which was very well received and we had a new client booking from it. We are hoping to run another speed networking event at the Hall in 2011 so keep an eye on our website for details.

Holmewood Hall is a Premier Conference, Meeting and Training venue ideally located just south of Peterborough close to the A1(M). Whatever your conference needs, Holmewood Hall will not disappoint. Call us on 01487 831166 to discuss your requirements.

Andy Stocking
Marketing Manager
Holmewood Hall