Networking

Networking… it can feel a little daunting sometimes, possibly even the stuff of nightmares for some, but fear not we’ve got a simple guide to go from small talk horror to a delightful day...

“When it’s going well networking events are brilliant hubs of conversation, laughter and skill sharing. Our events are all specifically focused on creating welcoming, warm and happy spaces where all are welcome, from seasoned professionals to those newly blooming. They are events designed to create the community we don’t always have as freelancers.”

We want you to show up as your best self, so we’ve put together a few prompts and ideas to help you get the most out of a networking event…

Getting over the fear

When you signed up to the networking event, I bet you had the greatest intentions, you thought it’ll be fun, interesting maybe? You’ll get to meet new people, share your experience of the industry, and perhaps make a new florist friend! The location is lovely and if nothing else you’ll get a cup of tea and a change of scene.

But now the nerves have started to creep in and you’re wondering if a day with your emails would be a safer bet. This is completely normal and we want you to know that lots of people find networking difficult, even the most confident seeming people might be panicking on the inside, you’re not alone and you’ll be with a warm and welcoming community. We promise nothing bad is going to happen! Remind yourself that this is a great opportunity to change up your week, that other people are just as nervous as you and you have some interesting stories of your own to tell - we can’t wait to hear them!

Come prepared

On a practical note, check the location, time and parking (on the email or the event invite). Pack a snack for the journey, bring a notepad and maybe some business cards. Plan an outfit which makes you feel good! All of these will reduce any anxieties you may be having before the event, planning to arrive calm, collected and representing yourself in an outfit that is truly you will have a hugely positive impact on your day.

Introduce yourself

Another thing you can plan ahead of time is how you’d like to introduce yourself. You’ll want to say your name (and business name if you have one), your location and what sort of area of floristry you specialise in. Think about the things you’d like to share about yourself, what lasting impression do you want to leave on those you’ve connected with, what will they remember about you?

Ask questions

We each bring something special to this event and it’s a good idea to think of a couple of questions you might like to ask someone else, is there an element of freelancing which you’d like a bit of advice on…? Or would you like to develop a specific skill? Or maybe you’d like to know more about someone else’s area. Again, think of a few questions before you get there and you’ll feel ready to mingle with confidence.

DON’T LEAVE If YOU FEEL AWKWARD - STICK WITH US

So the talk has just finished and now it’s the weird moment between staying, staring at the floor or striking up conversation with a stranger. We’ve all felt those moments when we’d rather leave, but we’re all in this together. Try to resist looking at your phone, instead make eye contact and try smiling at someone, because they are probably feeling just like you. If you do need five minutes to reset then pop to the toilet and take a deep breath - you’ve got this! The Freelance Florist staff are also on hand to chat as well - so grab us and we’ll get you feeling comfortable and confident again.

Make connections

Once you’ve had a great chat with someone, get their details or add them on social media, you could even make a note of the topics you want to talk more about. It’s great if you already know someone, but to make the most of the opportunity, try to avoid staying with one person, try to talk to other people in the room and, sit next to someone you have never met before. This isn’t a competitive comparison party either, so remember to ditch any hang ups you might have, you bring your own spark to the industry and we’re all here together as a community.

Take a moment

Networking events can often leave you with a head full of ideas and different perspectives, so before you set off home take a moment to write down the different people you met and some key ideas or thoughts. It’s best to do it whilst its fresh in your mind.

Take a moment to feel proud of yourself for turning up today! I know we will have loved meeting you.