Hidden in our little streets and in corners of industrial estates, streets and housing estates, villages have a surprisingly rich array of small businesses. Many are familiar; as we go about our daily lives we frequently pass the pharmacy, the garage and the hairdresser. What about the hidden businesses? If you want a beautician, a gardener, a bookkeeper or a plumber you will often find one in your village. If you want an industrial cleaner, a counsellor, an artist, an event organiser or a tarot card reader, you will probably find one too. In fact, when it comes to local businesses, you would be surprised by what is available on your doorstep.
I am keen to bring local businesses together to benefit all. As Group Leader of Market Harborough’s branch of 4N, I would like to see more businesses from villages represented at our meetings.
4N is a networking organization with branches all over the country. The Market Harborough group has breakfast meetings once a fortnight. At these meetings owners of local businesses get to meet other business people in a relaxed, fun and friendly environment. The meetings are structured so that no one gets left in a corner wondering what to do. There are speakers, one-to-ones when you get to speak to another businessperson in depth and the opportunity to market your own business.
In addition to networking locally, 4N enables small businesses to access other business related activities such as marketing, self-development, social media, sales and much more. There is a bonus – many of these additional activities are free.
Running a small business can be lonely and it can be difficult to keep motivated when things get a little difficult. Joining a small networking group can change all that. Further, the breakfast meetings enable business people to network without using up many of those precious work hours. What would you prefer to do, make your own toast or eat a Full English or a Continental breakfast with a group of friendly people who are very likely to bring business your way? What is not to like? Breakfast, friendly folk, business opportunities, support, advice and a chance to learn and develop your business skills.
If you run (or are thinking of starting up) a small business and would like to know more about 4N, please contact me at morgan@morgangleave.co.uk You are very welcome to come to a 4N meeting as a visitor. 4N Market Harborough is re-launching on Tuesday 30 June at The Angel Hotel, 8:00-10:00am, leaving you plenty of time left to focus on work! Breakfast costs £12.00 (cash please), and you should bring plenty of business cards, promotional material and your best smile!
If you are new to networking, I will be pleased to meet up with you and discuss how a 4N meeting would benefit you and your business. There is no need to worry about being subjected to the hard sell approach, you will be given the information and have your questions answered and then you will be left to decide for yourself.
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