Networking in Glasgow: is Face-to-face Networking a Thing of the Past?

Is face-to-face networking really a thing of the past? Networking is the oldest trick in the book for business growth, but is face-to-face networking giving people the chance to build real relationships, share their skills, and uncover new prospects? In Glasgow, a vibrant city with a thriving business community, face-to-face and online networking are both accessible and diverse - perfect for all industries and preferences. Whether you're a startup, a seasoned SME, or a creative pro; Glasgow's networking landscape has something to offer you.

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The Value of Networking

Being engaged in networking can provide an array of benefits - these obvious ones top the chart:

• Relationship Building: Establishing connections with peers, mentors, and potential clients fosters trust and opens doors to collaborations.

• Knowledge Sharing: Networking facilitates the exchange of ideas, industry insights, and best practices, contributing to personal and professional growth.

• Business Opportunities: Through networking, businesses can discover partnerships, client leads, and avenues for expansion.
  

Networking can happen anywhere - in person, online, or through a combination of both. Through repeated quality interactions, companies (and the people therein) create deeper connections, encouraging an exchange of knowledge and an effort to make mutually beneficial business decisions. But what does a quality networking meet actually look like?

Quality Networking in Glasgow: Staying Engaged in the Conversation

The key to quality networking is staying engaged in the conversation - not just the one-on-one kind, but in group contexts, too. Being present and accounted for is the first step in being a valued member of a network, and this is so much easier to achieve during face-to-face events. Let's face it; how often have you been tempted to have another browser page open, or keep your phone in hand during an online networking event? The truth is, when the rest of the room is half-way across the world, the country, or even just the city, it's probably safe to say that you're not alone in that temptation. So if attendees are distracted, what impact does that have on the event's success?

Face-to-face Networking in Glasgow: Getting Yourself Out There

So let's make it easier on ourselves - staying engaged is never easier than when a living, breathing, enthusiastic business owner is making an impassioned and compelling speech about their business. So where can we find these enthusiastic entrepreneurs and their face-to-face events in Glasgow? Don't worry; we've got you. Glasgow's networking community is full of buzz and activity; so let Squinty Pixels guide you on your first steps toward quality networking with a list of unique and professional networking events!

Opportunities for Quality Networking in Glasgow

Glasgow hosts a variety of networking events that cater to different needs and budgets. Here are three notable examples:

1. Expo Scotland Business Show by Hashtag Events

   • Overview: Now in its 15th year (at time of writing), this business networking event attracts hundreds of local decision-makers. Designed for owners, managers, and directors from businesses of all sizes, the Expo offers a platform to connect, learn, and promote your brand.

   • Features:

     • Free attendance to all sessions.

     • Opportunities to network with local businesses.

     • Exhibition spaces to showcase products and services.

   • Benefits:

     • Promote your brand to a wide audience.

     • Generate leads and close deals.

     • Establish your business as a local or national expert.

   • Cost: Free to attend; exhibition spaces involve a fee.

   • Location: Hampden Park, Glasgow.

   • More Information: Expo Scotland Business Show
     

     
     

     

2. Scottish Creative Network (SCN) by Greig Middlemiss

   • Overview: SCN is a casual networking group for creatives in Scotland. Originally focused on connecting photographers with other creatives, it has expanded to welcome anyone involved in visual creation, including videographers, designers, illustrators, and of course, the decision-makers who would be looking for services from any/all of the above.

   • Features:

     • Monthly meetups fostering connections and collaborations.

     • Open to professionals at all experience levels, from beginners to veterans.

     • Opportunities to share work, find collaborators, and gain inspiration.

   • Benefits:

     • Expand your creative network.

     • Find potential collaborators for projects.

     • Engage with a supportive community.

   • Cost: Typically free or low-cost to attend.

   • Location: The Social Hub Glasgow.

   • More Information: Scottish Creative Network
     

     

     
     

3. Business Network International (BNI) – Sunrise Chapter

   • Overview: BNI is a global networking organisation specialising in referral marketing. The Sunrise Chapter in Motherwell, just outside Glasgow, is part of this extensive network, providing a structured environment for business professionals to develop relationships and generate referrals.

   • Features:

     • Regular meetings with a focus on building relationships and passing referrals.

     • Exclusive membership for each professional specialty within the chapter.

     • Access to a global network of professionals.

   • Benefits:

     • Increase business through qualified referrals.

     • Develop lasting relationships with other professionals.

     • Access training and resources for business growth.

   • Cost: Membership involves a significant investment, reflecting the structured and supportive environment provided.

   • Location: Motherwell, near Glasgow.

   • More Information: BNI Sunrise Chapter
     

With this varied spread of quality face-to-face networking events to choose from, you would be hard pressed not to find something that works for your location in Glasgow, your schedule, budget, or sector. If you would like to attend BNI Sunrise as Squinty Pixel's visitor and guest, get in touch with us and we'll be happy to arrange the opportunity.

So is Face-to-face Networking a Thing of the Past? We certainly don't think so.

Networking in Glasgow is both accessible and beneficial, offering a range of opportunities to suit different industries, preferences, and budgets. By engaging in quality face-to-face networking events like the Expo Scotland Business Show, the Scottish Creative Network, or joining structured groups like BNI, businesses and professionals can expand their horizons, foster meaningful relationships, and drive growth. Getting out of your shell and embracing these opportunities will absolutely lead to valuable connections that strengthen your presence in the local business community.

Ready to get started? Choose an event and make your move!