Business networking helps many business owners and entrepreneurs build long term relationships, and one of the most exciting elements is what this can lead to.

The Portishead Chamber of Commerce believes, the art of good networking is all about collaboration. We are a great believer that we are stronger when working together.

Networking is an opportunity to not only learn, seek help and meet new people but a place to support others, build relationships and your reputation.

One of the most common questions or concerns that holds people back from even getting started is ‘what do I do when I’m there?’ ‘What do I say?’ ‘How do I behave?’

Online events are no different to face to face events, other than the technology.

For those of you who have not attended an online networking event, we hope the following will help you to understand how we run these events:

We open the calls 10 minutes before the start time - if you have not used Zoom before, it is worth logging into the session during this time to check your connections.

o When logging in you will be placed into a ‘waiting room’ initially until the host let’s you into the session

The host will explain how the session will run and will manage who speaks when, but in general we cover the following:

o There will be a brief introduction from the host regarding the session

o You will be encouraged to put your business details into the chat so that other attendees can make contact with you outside of the session.

Details should include: Your Name, Company Name, Contact Number and Email and Website (if applicable)

o Subject to the number of attendees - everyone will get an opportunity to talk about their business for at least 1 minute.

Please include:

• Your name and company

• A brief summary of what you do

• How we can help you

o We will often include an icebreaker question. This will be provided before you attend the session.

You are also encouraged to make a note of anyone you would like to talk to further.