Speed networking is THE way to put YOUR business first….The Chamber of Commerce introduced this concept to the North West in 2005 and literally hundreds of businesses have learned the tricks of the networking trade - doing business with business colleagues, each company leaving the event with loads of leads and even more contacts. But it's what you do with those leads and contacts after the event. This is the crucial second step in the process.

Speed networking is a relatively new concept, similar in nature to the Speed Dating craze that has swept the country. Instead of meeting potential dates, you meet potential business contacts. The event is structured so that you meet individually with 20-30 business professionals for about 5 minutes each. During each meeting you exchange ideas, brainstorm about topics, give advice, and see how you can help each other.

This event is one with a difference though. We have secured Harry Harpur from the Loop, who has vast experience in networking & skill development to host the night and give us some pointers, tips and practical experience over a glass of wine. Harry's brief is to help to groom your networking skills, give you a few tips and pointers on what to do and more importantly what not to do. He will also be talking about the follow up activities you should engage in if you want to build a successful business to business relationship.

Janice Tracey, the Chamber's CEO says "One of the main problems with traditional networking events is that people tend to stick with the same small groups of colleagues and acquaintances and as a result, don't get to meet new contacts who could benefit them and their businesses". This is a new and innovative approach to networking and it is powerful way of building new relationships and generating new business opportunities.

She continued - We have designed this event specifically to make sure that your valuable time is spent introducing yourself and your company to the people that can impact your business. With a unique format, we will help you keep your foot on the accelerator as you meet more people, make more contacts, and generate more business ideas than you ever thought was possible at a networking event."

The event is being held on Tuesday 19^th June, Everglades Hotel, 6.00pm. This is an open event and it is available for both members and non members. We will have a wide range of businesses from across the spectrum of sectors including companies from Donegal, Limavady, Strabane and Coleraine, so bring along plenty of business cards.

Email events@londonderrychamber.co.uk or telephone Michelle at 02871262379 if you are interested in attending. We have kept the cost of this event as low as possible to encourage companies to send more than one representative thus doubling or tripling the number of contacts each business can make. {£15.00 (+VAT)

For further information contact Michelle Brace 02871262379