The charismatic founder and MD of the UK’s largest business network was in Marlborough this week to help the local 4Networking chapter celebrate its fifth anniversary.
Brad Burton’s jeans and t-shirt approach to networking was grasped as an antidote to the regimented approaches of associations like the BNI, while his Meet, Know, Like, Trust philosophy to networking and referrals has struck a chord with so many small businesses that the organisation now boasts 50,000 members across 300 groups
The Marlborough branch was established by Brad and Karen Thurley, of RED Virtual Office, in 2007 at the Ogbourne Downs Golf Club, which has been the home of the 4Networking branch for five years
Every other Tuesday around 20 small business owners meet for a 40-second introduction to talk about their own business, three ten minute one-to-one appointments with other members, and to listen to an industry expert give a ‘4sight’ talk.
And Tuesday’s meeting attracted almost 30 members, from as far afield as Oxford, Newbury and Bristol.
“One of the great things about 4Networking,” explained group leader Gail Lummis “is that you join the entire network, not just your local group. You could spend five mornings a week networking if you wanted to.”
The proximity of the golf club from the M4 makes the club attractive to members from Swindon and further afield. Gail works from Calne, while Karen – who still attends Marlborough meetings – is based in Highworth.
“You meet so many great contacts at 4Networking,” said Gail. “And the relaxed atmosphere makes it easier for some people to get into the networking habit. It really gives you confidence.”
The next meetings of Marlborough 4Networking will be held on October 4, 16 and 30 from 8am to 10am. Attendance costs £12. For more information contact Gail on 01249 818758 or at gail.lummis@sky.com
