Networking is a crucial aspect of growing a small business, especially if you’re a new business in need of that first batch of customers that will get you off the ground.

Luckily, if you’ve started your business in the Crawley, West Sussex area, you have a vibrant community of flourishing businesses to tap into.

If you’re new to the area or looking to get out and meet more people, here are some essential networking tips tailored for small business owners in Crawley.

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Understand the Importance of Networking

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Networking is more than just exchanging business cards; it’s about building relationships and trust. 

By regularly attending networking events, you can:

• Increase your visibility in the local business community.
• Gain referrals and new business opportunities.
• Learn from the experiences of other business owners.
• Stay updated with industry trends and local market conditions.

We cannot emphasise the importance of using networking events as a chance to learn. Your business will progress much faster if you leverage the experience of other business owners.
Perhaps you want to start doing some serious marketing. Someone will know a good agency to speak to. Maybe you need a reliable accountant (wink wink nudge nudge).
There will no doubt be people in the room who can help and advise you.

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Identify the Right Networking Events

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Crawley and the broader West Sussex area offer a variety of networking events. Each one has its own vibe and character.  Here are some notable ones:

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Lello Networking: 

A free-to-attend, friendly, and relaxed event usually held every second Thursday of the month at Mungo's Bar in Horsham.
Lello is a great way to meet and chat about business in an informal setting. It’s less about handing out business cards and more about having a chat over a pint.
Lello offers the opportunity to sponsor the event to one business per month. You get the opportunity to do a short presentation to the attendees and the only payment is that you must give away a little prize.
This could be a great way to get your new business off the ground by offering up your services as the prize.

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BNI (Business Network International): 

BNI is a large, professional networking organisation. There is a hefty yearly membership fee to join but you can attend as a guest of a current member. 

BNI’s big focus is on generating referrals among its members. Outside of the networking events you’re supposed to do your part to generate your fellow members' leads for their business and they will do the same for you.
It’s certainly not for everyone but no one can deny it as being an effective business growth tool. BNI helped Curve Accountancy almost quadruple in size during the time in which we were members.
BNI meetings are held weekly, either at breakfast or lunchtime. There are various BNI chapters in Sussex, including one at Xenia Lounge in Crawley.

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Gatwick Diamond Business: 

This organisation has been supporting local businesses for over 60 years. They offer monthly members' meetings and various networking events throughout Sussex.

A great option for Crawley-based businesses due to its locale. This is definitely one of the more professional networking events available in the area.

No doubt a great choice for those in professional industries. 

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Sussex Chamber of Commerce: 

They provide a range of sector-based membership services and networking opportunities, including business breakfasts and lunch 'n' learns.

Sussex Chamber of Commerce is another great professional option for networking and growing your business.

They also have private LinkedIn groups where you can often get the scoop on the latest goings on in the West Sussex business world.

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Horsham RUFC Networking:

A fantastic, free local option for business owners in the Crawley/Horsham area. Held once a month, you can enjoy a free coffee and breakfast while chatting to a wide variety of local businesses big and small.

This is a good option for those who want to build relationships in the wider community as often there will be attendees from local charities and schools too.
You can put yourself on the waiting list to do a presentation where you can run through a 5-minute PowerPoint presentation in front of the room. A potentially powerful opportunity if you can get your sales pitch dialled in!

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Three Bridges FC Networking Mornings:

Our personal favourite for networking in Crawley! Three Bridges FC’s monthly networking event is hosted by the legendary Paul Faili & occasionally by our very own Chris Irving.

This event has a very informal setting and there’s often much joking and laughter to be had.
Many of the businesses buy and use each other’s services and it’s become a very close-knit community that always opens its arms to new members.

Three Bridges FC Networking Mornings happen on the last Wednesday of every month. You can register your interest in attending via the club’s website.

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Prepare Effectively for Networking Events

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To make the most of networking events, preparation is key:

• Determine what you want to achieve from the event, whether it’s meeting potential clients, finding collaborators, or learning more about the local business community.
• Have a concise and compelling description of your business ready. It should highlight what you do, who you serve, and what makes you unique. There’s nothing worse than watching someone’s eyes glaze over as you struggle to describe what you do.
• Ensure you have plenty of business cards to hand out. They should look professional and feature up-to-date contact info

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Tips for Effective Networking

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Our No.1 piece of advice is this. Don’t be a salesperson. People go to networking events to socialise and build relationships.

If you walk into a new networking event and go around the room pitching people or trying to use clever tactics to secure leads, you will build a reputation as someone nobody wants to talk to.

Focus on leading with value. Showcase your skills and knowledge in an organic way through meaningful conversation. You’ll build better relationships and close more deals in the long run.

Be prepared to attend networking events consistently over a long period. Build that reciprocity and reputation and they will pay off!

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Conclusion

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Networking is an invaluable tool for small business owners in Crawley, West Sussex. 

They’re essential in building relationships within the local area and you will find them an invaluable lead-generation tool if you’re willing to put in the effort.

Remember, the key to successful networking is consistency, authenticity, and a willingness to help others. Happy networking!