The Truth About Business Networking – Tips No One Tells You - Make it Your Business

Welcome back to Make It Your Business! In this episode, James Murray and Duncan Casey unpack the real truth about business networking… the good, the bad, and the occasionally awkward. From overcoming the fear of walking into a room full of strangers to crafting a memorable 30-second pitch, we dive into what actually works when it comes to networking in the UK. Whether you're attending BNI, joining a business club, or just getting started on LinkedIn, this episode is full of first-hand advice and proven tips that can help you build genuine relationships and win more business. We also share personal stories (including a few cringeworthy ones), how to measure your return on networking time and spend, and why a branded hoodie might be your secret weapon. Plus, how to find the right group for your industry, how to avoid the “hard sell,” and ways to become the person others want to talk to at any event. 👥 If you're a UK business owner, freelancer, or founder looking to grow your network without feeling like a salesperson, this one’s for you. Timecodes 00:00 - Intro: Why Business Networking Matters01:13 - The Downsides of Networking: Time Wasters & Pitfalls06:22 - Business Clubs vs Traditional Networking08:40 - Is Networking Worth It? Measuring ROI10:18 - What Makes You Memorable in a Room12:25 - Traits of a Good Networker: Listening Over Talking14:35 - Why You Can’t Speak to Everyone16:10 - The Dread of Walking In: Breaking the Ice18:05 - Wear Your Brand: Clothing Hacks for Networking19:55 - Mastering the 30-Second Elevator Pitch23:50 - Lunch & Learn Events: Are They Worth It?26:40 - Real-Life Story: What Not to Do at a Networking Event30:49 - Barriers to Entry: Make It Easy to Follow Up32:20 - Leveraging LinkedIn for Networking35:40 - Speak Up: Becoming a Presenter at Events40:45 - Final Thoughts: Just Start — Networking Pays Off 🔗 Learn more about your hosts: James Murray Finance: https://www.jamesmurrayfinance.co.uk Copper Sprocket Content Marketing: https://www.coppersprocketcontent.com 🎧 If you enjoyed this episode, please subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone else navigating the wild ride of business ownership. We’d love to hear from you—drop a comment or message us with your thoughts!