This is one of a series of facilitated discussions for local business owners, based around the theme of verbal communication. Somewhere between a workshop and a networking event, these sessions are designed to help business people promote themselves in a more confident and effective way, and develop skills which can be used in all walks of life.  

Supported by the Bollington Business Forum, these events are hosted by Andrew Thorp, a professional speaker, brand storytelling consultant and Bollington resident. 

There is no entrance fee as such for these events; instead attendees are asked to make a donation to the Bollington Festival fundraising campaign (a minimum £10 contribution is recommended). Click here for link to donations page. 

After a successful opening session in November 2018 about Verbal PR/storytelling we will cover the following themes in 2019: 

• SEE BELOW for Feb event
• Does humour have a place in business?
• Are we losing the art of conversation in the digital age? 

Session #2 - Persuade from the Stage (how to connect with your audience)

This is a re-creation of a theme Andrew first launched about a decade ago - Speakeasy. No, not an elicit drinking den in Prohibition America (one meaning), but a way of helping people with something to say to communicate with more confidence from the stage. It's a rare opportunity for 3-4 people to test-drive a message in front of an audience. You create a safe environment, give each presenter 5 minutes or so to deliver their talk to a group and invite that group to give feedback. Don't worry - we only ask pre-arranged volunteers to do this! But it's a rare and extremely valuable opportunity to improve a pitch you might have to give - about your business, your charity, your idea, anything where it matters how persuasive you are.

Format (event lasts approximately 2 hours) 

• Open networking with light refreshments served
• Welcome from the facilitator – introductions
• Presentations and feedback
• Summary and close

About the venue

Bollington Arts Centre have kindly agreed to host the event.

About the Bollington Business Forum 

 The 2 main purposes of the Forum are:

1) to bring people with business interests in Bollington, Cheshire together; and

2) to support business growth and employment opportunities in Bollington and the surrounding area. The group is part of a range of business support activities co-led by its members and supported by Bollington Town Council.