There are many benefits to being self-employed. You’re in control of your own time. You can pick and choose what projects you work on. You’re making money to achieve your own dreams, not building somebody else’s business.
But, like everything, there are some downsides too. Being self-employed can get a bit lonely at times and finding new clients isn’t always easy – there are only so many marketing emails and LinkedIn DMs you can send, right?
Networking is a great way to keep loneliness at bay whilst also making new connections who could be anyone, including new clients, like-minded peers, or even investors.
Whatever purpose you set out with; it can feel daunting if you don’t do it much, but you’ll soon get into the swing of things. Start with our networking tips for self-employed people and you’ll be feeling more confident in no time.
Tips for networking when you’re self-employed
Taking steps to prepare yourself might help you make the most of any time you spend networking, and to reap the rewards afterwards. We’ll share a few tips to help you market your business like a true pro.
Consider your goals and network strategically
If you’re stretched for time, don’t just attend any old networking event online or in your local area. Do some homework first and be selective in choosing events based on your business goals and the types of people or clients you want to meet.
If you’re looking to raise funds without grants, for example, you could attend specific investor networking events. That way, you can give your elevator pitch to potential future investors on the spot and start conversations with the right kinds of people.
Finesse your elevator pitch
Your elevator pitch is a 30-second explanation of who you are, what you do, and the unique selling points of your business. Practising it in advance will help you feel confident when the time comes to make those all-important introductions. You might feel a bit silly but practicing your spiel in front of a mirror, or even in front of someone else to get their feedback, can be super helpful.
Prepare questions and conversation topics
As well as being strategic about the types of networking events you attend, it’s also important to consider the kinds of conversations you’re hoping to have. It’s great to find common ground and build relationships, but don’t be afraid to go with your goals in mind and ask questions which steer the conversation where you want it to go.
If you’re feeling nervous, you can always keep some prompts in a note app on your phone so you can use a toilet break as an excuse to consult them.
Volunteer to help with events if possible
Another thing you could consider is getting more involved with some events than simply attending. If there’s a particular type of networking event, company or initiative that you align strongly with, reach out to them and ask how else you can get involved. This will expand your connections and your experience even further.
Just be yourself
It’s important to be strategic and goal-oriented when it comes to networking but don’t let that stop you from relaxing and enjoying yourself. The best way to make meaningful and memorable connections with people is to just be your authentic self.
Follow up with the people you meet
Take this as your friendly reminder to note down the names, numbers, email addresses and social media handles of the people you meet. It’s easy to get absorbed in conversations and forget to make sure you have a way to reach out after the event.
Follow up with the connections you want to pursue and find most valuable so you can keep up the momentum of your newfound professional relationship and explore its full potential. Don’t leave it too long to follow up – strike while the iron’s hot!
Where to find networking events in London
Hopefully our tips have got you feeling all fired up and ready to network like never before. Now, all that’s left to do is pop some event dates in your diary and get out there.
If you’re looking for networking events in London, here are some great places to start:
Networking.London
A group founded by West London businesses for other businesses. They host monthly networking events to support new connections and idea-sharing amongst local like-minded entrepreneurs.
Meetup
A platform designed to connect people with shared interests, goals and experiences. People on the platform share their events so you can find and attend them more easily.
Social media
The business side of social media is a brilliant place to find networking events. Check out London-based Facebook business groups and LinkedIn pages for the latest details about what’s on.
Co-working spaces
There are currently more than 1,400 coworking spaces in London alone. Most of these will host networking events that you can attend, even if you’re not a member. Check out their websites and social media profiles for event notifications and updates.
Eventbrite
Some event listing websites, like Eventbrite, are for work as well as leisure and you can find some brilliant networking events in your chosen city or area.
Chamber of Commerce
Check out your local Chamber of Commerce’s website, as there will be a whole host of networking events listed there for you to investigate.
Attend conferences and other events
If you attend conferences and seminars in your industry, take a close look at the agenda because there will likely be some related networking going on.
Ask around
Ask friends and connections for their recommendations. They may even be up for taking you along to their next networking date.
Finding your networking niche
Wherever you find them, networking events will range from breakfast mornings to full-day sessions for startups, and evening events for new entrepreneurs – and everything in between.
Try out different types of events to see which one you enjoy and benefit from the most. Wherever you go, you’re sure to find a community of people ready to support you and lots of other self-employed networkers in the same boat.
Once you find your groove and the events you like to go to, you’ll start to look forward to networking and all the benefits it brings. Don’t forget to shake things up from time to time and keep exploring the diversity of events out there too—you never know who you might meet.
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