Huge Growth for Virtual Business Networking with MENTA

Business Networking in the New Normal
Handshaking and business card swapping – may have been put on hold during 2020 but the need to connect continues across our business communities.

MENTA Business Support launched online virtual networking in March and has month on month growth in participation and engagement.

Alex Till, CEO of MENTA, says "Norfolk and Suffolk business people told us they wanted a networking platform that was easily accessible and had a wide cross sector reach - we have delivered regular events that reach around 300 people within just a few days of going live and continue to see a growing audience"

"Delivered as Facebook live events, businesses connect, raise profile and enjoy some form of break from the feelings of isolation" Mr Till added.  

MENTA will be hosting business networking on November 24th from 9.30am you can reserve your space free of charge by visiting this link.

Norfolk and Suffolk business are welcome to join this and future events and many are increasingly realising the benefits of virtual networking. Event host Nick Pandolfi, says "we encourage visitors to reach out post the networking events and continue the connection process via Linkedin, we have heard some great stories of new connections being made and business deals being undertaken ".

 
Networking offers a wealth of benefits to business owners, freelancers, and entrepreneurs; from building and leveraging a professional community and developing new business opportunities, to knowledge and skill sharing, and easing feelings of loneliness associated with working independently.

   
MENTA offers this advice on how to get the most from virtual networking

Do your research
Prior to a networking event, it is common for a list of attendees to be made visible, so identify those you wish to engage with before the event.

LinkedIn
Your LinkedIn profile is your new virtual business card. Share this far and wide with attendees and invite them to connect.
Engage with the host and fellow delegates by asking questions, sharing interesting information and keeping conversations relevant.

Have a regular presence
Networking requires commitment – a commitment of time and of energy. To form and nurture meaningful business relationships, you need to commit to having a regular presence.

MENTA has a Facebook live networking event on Tuesday, November 24th at 9.30 am - to join in, simple head to the MENTA Facebook page