Lessons from an unusual networking venue

© Mi Elfverson, True North Vision www.truenorthvision.co.uk

If you’ve known me for a while, you’ll know I like to do adventurous things from time to time. In 2012, I took three of my clients for a skydive, and I’ve walked the Inca Trail. I’ve helped dozens of people to walk on hot coals and broken glass, and break through boards with their bare hands. And many of my clients are also embarking on the big task of writing a book and building their business.

So when I was given the chance to attend a women’s networking day on a fort in the middle of The Solent – arranged by Suzanne Dibble, my go-to legal person – I couldn’t say no (especially since I live just 10 minutes drive from the meeting point!).

Recalling a famous quote from the late Jim Rohn who said “you’re the average of the five people you spend the most time with”, it was a great chance to spend the day with other inspirational women. Oh and the lunch, champagne and speakers were an added bonus!

Here are some of the lessons that I was reminded of from a day on the Fort

© Karen Williams

No man is an island(!). Having the chance to network and share resources with others is essential, as you can’t do everything by yourself. Is there much point in struggling to get something done when other people know the answer? Connections are great in business and I came away on Wednesday with a list of people to get in touch with and link with others, as well as to follow up myself.

Just having a couple of hours with two of the speakers was a great modafinil motivator. I was reminded of things that I already knew but had forgotten, and also found little sparks were formed by new ideas that I could use in my own business and with my clients.

When it comes to connections, people know people and when you’re clear on your message, it will be easier to refer you to others. Many people came up to me because they knew me as ‘the book lady’ through my contacts on Facebook and others who know me personally.

© Mi Elfverson, True North Vision www.truenorthvision.co.uk

But… If you’re always stuck behind your computer, you’re never going to have those personal conversations that can change lives. You know… the serendipity of meeting the right person at the right time – you never know what might happen from a seemingly chance encounter. You need to make time to do things that may not feel important, but you’ll probably kick yourself later if you never do it.

Sometimes you have to jump out of your comfort zone. When suddenly your expected sedate ride back to terraferma turns into a speedboat, then you have to put on your big girl pants and ride the waves!!

And that’s not all..

One of the reasons that I run my writing retreats is to bring a group of like-minded people together to give them the time to write their book. A place where they can inspire each other to bring their ideas together and get time with me to get book done. It may not be at a fort in the middle of the sea, but does a beautiful village in South West Spain sound good to you? Here’s the link to more details.