Networking events can often feel like a daunting challenge for introverted entrepreneurs (including extroverted introverts!). The thought of mingling in a crowded room, making small talk, and navigating social dynamics can be overwhelming and in some cases terrifying. But fear not! Networking doesn't have to be an exhausting experience. With a few strategies and a little preparation, you can approach these events with confidence and perhaps even begin to enjoy the process. Let’s explore some effective networking tips tailored especially for you…

Business Growth Club is one of the longest running networking groups in MK, it’s a not-for-profit, bi-weekly Friday early morning group and offers something a little different to many of the groups I’ve visited. It definitely has a different (‘no rules’) vibe, and therefore attracts a different tribe of networker. If banter is your happy place, you’ll love this fun, cheeky and sometimes close to the knuckle clan. Marks mantra is “The absolute freedom to be yourself” they want to meet the real you, not the sales persona. Let me explain..

The Meet of MK is MKFM radios monthly business networking event which runs on the last Thursday of each month and the style is that of ‘after work drinks’ with phenomenal live (background) music and celebration of local talent. These events are sponsored by Facilities Management Solutions and hosted by partner venues. Cute additions include live music from local talent, a branded goodie bag and list of attendees available to all who sign up. This community attracts possibly the most varied of large audiences from the range of networking events available to you, including members of the MKFM business club.

The Power of Reciprocity in Small Business Networking: Why Giving is the Key to Success

The NatWest Accelerator team in MK hosts a free of charge monthly co-working and connections session for female founders, held in their branch within the C:MK shopping centre once a month on the first Tuesday of the month. The session aims to provide a collaborative space for women in business to come together to inspire, empower, signpost and support each other. Fully funded by NatWest, they provide the workspace, wifi, unlimited tea, coffee, filtered chilled water and of course biscuits.

MK Tech Forum brought to you by Protospace is slightly different to most of the networking groups I’m posting about; it doesn’t offer memberships and there’s no charge for attending, despite there always being a lovely spread; that’s because it’s currently funded by MK City Council to stimulate the tech network and activity in Milton Keynes.

The ‘empty chair’ is synonymous with grief- and at networking events that’s often true for the organiser, especially when they’re in the front row, in a small square room, when you’re trying to take great photos!

Seriously, it’s a thing. As an event host I really wish people would ‘fill in from the front’. It helps late arrivals grab the back seats surreptitiously, it makes the photos look better and gives a more accurate reflection of how full the room is (you can rarely get the back rows in the shot, especially in square rooms)..

Women in Enterprise is a ‘not for profit’ association hosted by the WIE committee currently chaired by Michelle Theuma. They run monthly events across a variety of locations supporting charity locations and local indie hospitality venues.

Collaborate MK , hosted by Tim Lee, runs at various days and times throughout the week and variable locations offering the most comprehensive and varied business networking schedule in MK

Discover the best networking events in Milton Keynes to help your small business thrive. navigate the local scene with confidence using my comprehensive guide and top tips.

City Breakfast is considered a ‘premier’ networking group and absolutely attracts a different type of attendee to some of the micro business network events. I often recommend this group to entrepreneurs who are looking to connect with large organisations and business leaders in and around MK (as opposed to those from smaller SME owner managed entities). You will sometimes find the mayor, the lord lieutenant and high sheriff in attendance as well as notable city leaders and influential business personalities.