Small Business Research and Enterprise

By: Mohib Ali, Business Adviser for Small Business Research + Enterprise Centre

Let’s be honest—when most people hear the word “networking,” they think of lukewarm coffee, name badges, and awkward conversations that sound like the start of a bad sales pitch.

But if you’re a new entrepreneur, networking isn’t just a dreaded social obligation—it’s your secret weapon.

So… what do you do?

Whether you’re building a bakery, launching a tech start-up, or freelancing as a creative genius, success isn’t just about what you know. It’s about who you know, who knows you, and how you show up in the spaces that matter. Luckily, we at the Small Business Research and Enterprise Centre (SBREC) are here to make that process not only less painful – but wildly beneficial for your long-term growth.

In this blog, I’ll break this down and show you how to work the room like a pro and how we at SBREC have your back every step of the way.

1. The golden rule of networking: Give before you ask

When you’re new to the scene, it’s tempting to walk into a networking event thinking, “Who can help me?” But the best networkers flip the script: they focus on helping others first.

Are you a graphic designer who can give a quick logo tip? A baker who can recommend a supplier? Offer value without expecting anything in return. People remember generosity and they are more likely to help you when the tables turn.

SBREC tip: Use the SBREC business resources to stay sharp. From industry reports to market trend analysis, knowing your stuff gives you more to offer—and makes you the person others want to talk to.

2. Fake it till you… feel slightly less awkward

Here’s a secret: even the most seasoned entrepreneurs sometimes feel like they don’t belong. (Yes, even the ones with the perfectly tailored blazers.) The trick isn’t to become someone else, it’s to show up as the best, most curious version of yourself.

Practice a few opening lines (“What’s been the highlight of your week?” is gold), ask thoughtful questions, and most importantly, listen more than you speak.

SBREC tip: Nervous about your pitch? Use SBREC’s business advice sessions to sharpen your messaging. Get clarity on how to talk about your business in a way that feels confident and compelling. Let’s try and not look like you’re reading off a cereal box.

3. Follow up like a human, not a robot

Let’s say you had a great chat with a local business owner. You bonded over your mutual love of McVitie’s biscuits or finger foods and discussed possible collaboration. Amazing! But if you never follow up, that moment fades into networking oblivion.

Shoot them a quick message the next day: “Hey Selina, great meeting you at the event we went to! Loved our chat about Batman and co-marketing ideas. Let’s grab coffee sometime?”

Boom. Relationship = started.

SBREC Tip: You can use SBREC’s co-working spaces or nearby meeting rooms for casual meetups. Networking isn’t just about events – it’s about the connections you continue to build.

4. Not all networking is done in a room

Don’t wait for the next awkward wine-and-cheese mixer. Some of the best networking happens in quieter spaces: LinkedIn conversations, business workshops, research sessions, or even just showing up to a talk and asking a great question.

That’s where SBREC shines.

• Want to meet people in your industry? Attend SBREC-hosted seminar or workshop.
• Looking to connect with niche experts? Use the specialist business databases to find key contacts or competitors.
• Need insight on a target market before approaching investors? Tap into SBREC’s market research tools – many of which would cost a fortune elsewhere but are free through the Centre.

5. Play the long game

Networking is like gardening: you plant seeds, water them consistently, and don’t yank them out of the soil after a week asking why they haven’t turned into a money tree yet.

Some of your best future clients, collaborators, or mentors might not look important now. But fast forward six months, and that quiet person you helped at a workshop? They might be the connection that opens a door you didn’t know existed.

SBREC tip: As your business grows, SBREC grows with you. From startup tools to scaling strategies, our resources evolve based on where you are on your journey. We are not just a one-time visit, we want to be your long-term ally.

Final thoughts: Why networking (and SBREC) will shape your success

In a world that often tells entrepreneurs to hustle harder and go it alone, real growth comes from community. The right people can open doors, offer insights, challenge your thinking, and celebrate your wins.

Networking isn’t about being slick, it’s about being genuine! How do we at SBREC fit into this? With our databases, advice, and events, we can help you build knowledge, connections, and confidence.

So, whether you’re fresh off your first pitch deck or figuring out what to price your cupcakes, SBREC is your business wingman. Show up, stay curious, offer value—and the connections you build could change everything.

Want to start your networking journey today?

Just know, you are not alone. You’re just one good conversation away from your next big breakthrough.

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*We strive to do our best when supporting small business and their growth. Our business databases can give you information and data that can help you with advertising, market research, company information, and industry factsheets. If you have already taken the plunge, we would love for you to join us at a seminar, our workshops cover digital marketing, business model canvas and planning, demystifying taxes and intellectual property to name a few. Visit our events page or website for more information.