Network to build relationships

At Mercury Networking, we believe in building better businesses by building better connections. Basically, we network to build relationships. We’re not your typical networking group; there’s no expectation or pressure to immediately give your fellow-networkers business. Instead, we encourage conversation and knowledge-sharing. Trust develops amongst our members, leading to valuable long-term relationships and, ultimately, business growth.

We network differently

We’ve got a professional attitude to networking but it’s a relaxed one too. We network to build relationships for longer term benefit. It goes way beyond casual connections. Instead, we put a lot of purposeful effort into building and maintaining the right connections. How we network at Mercury comes down to a few fundamental principles:

• Being genuine in our interactions
• Offering value
• Maintaining contact
• Avoiding self-serving behaviour

Of course we network to get leads but it’s only through trust that connections can become opportunities for growth. And it has to be mutual growth. The relationships we build today can lead to unexpected opportunities tomorrow. Sometimes they’re immediate, often they deliver long term value.

Our members

Our members come from a wide range of sectors. From Accountancy to Zookeeping, the industries our members represent vary widely . Some are small businesses, involving one or two people, others have 50 plus employees. We have start ups as well as established businesses. We don’t operate a quota system – so you might find another person in your sector. An ally, someone who understands your challenges but very unlikely to provide the same services as you. Every member is invited to have an entry on the Mercury members’ directory. This directory gives our members an extra opportunity to get found by people seeking their services online.

Mercury Business Networking structure

These three key elements are key to how we network to build relationships:

1.The knowledge exchange

A strong network is a valuable source of industry insights and trend awareness. We learn from others facing similar challenges, as well as from those who’ve been there before. Acting as a sounding board, sharing and solving problems is key to building trust. Topics range from getting grants, recruiting good people, juggling life and business, using AI… Mercury Business networkers are generous with their experience and knowledge.

2. Doing business together

Being intent on getting a lead from someone is no where near as valuable as getting accepted by that person’s wider network of contacts. If you network to build relationships, each party can multiply their opportunities: not only to pitch for work but also benefit from the wisdom and resources of a bigger group of professionals.

3. Personal advancement

How we network - naturally and calmly - helps us grow and develop as individuals. We don’t need to run courses or training programmes to provide mentoring opportunities. We simply facilitate the opportunity to learn from other people who are experienced in their field. How we network at Mercury will give you access to personal advancement opportunities by default. Even if it’s just getting your presentation to work direct from your laptop!

What to expect at Mercury Business Networking

Our meetings are naturally structured and purposeful. We blend discussion and knowledge-sharing with connection, all in a relaxed and welcoming environment.

Each 2 hour session follows our successful formula:

• Introductions: what we do and why in 29 seconds.
• Presentation 1: a sales opportunity for the speaker, a learning opportunity for everyone else.
• Presentation 2: a chance to find out what makes us all tick
• Connection slots: short, timed opportunities to mingle and introduce ourselves

We don’t publish meeting dates because Mercury Networking isn’t about dropping in and collecting business cards. We network to build relationships so we like to get to know you first. It’s free to join, but we make sure everyone’s a good fit. Book your place at the next meeting.

Networking best practice

Do -

1. Be authentic and genuine
2. Demonstrate the value of your business
3. Prepare a concise elevator pitch
4. Follow up with contacts – through LinkedIn, over the phone, in person

Don’t -

1. Focus solely on personal gain
2. Adopt a transactional mindset
3. Show up unprepared
4. Network with us only once

Sponsorship: a benefit for members of Mercury Business Networking

We offer sponsorship opportunities exclusively to active members. It’s a brilliant way to raise your profile within the group, highlight your expertise to a wider audience, and support the Mercury Business Networking community.

Our venue

We meet at the Stevenage Gridserve, just off J7 of the A1. It suits us perfectly because it’s smart, modern and welcoming. It has great facilities: superb presentation technology, a well-stocked café and plenty of space for breakout meetings.

Ready to network to build relationships? Book your place at the next meeting.