Networking in the Amazon

28 October DBC/London Chamber – Speed Networking

Docklands Business Club’s speed networking gig at Greenwich Novotel was an energetic affair with representatives from thirty companies present. Timekeeper Clive Randall set a brisk pace giving delegates 90 seconds to make their introductions. A blast from Clive’s whistle signalled the next victim!

During these brief sessions, one makes a mental note of those to seek out for a longer chat over drinks. I was pleased to meet several colleagues in the media sector, including Thea van Zyl from Zazen Media, Rachael Smith of Crisis UK, Richard Wright from Garcia, Yu Zhao Operations Director, Golden View Translations and Dexter Coles from SP litho.

Thanks to Clive Randall DBC, Deborah Jarvis LCCI and the Novotel team

29 October LIKE8 – Perseverance

LIKE founders Virginia Henry, Jennifer Smith and Marja Kingma, resplendent in their logo’d T-shirts arranged for columnist Tim Buckley-Owen to open the discussion entitled “From Walled Garden to Amazon Jungle”.

Highlighting the dilemmas facing researchers in the current information environment – he compared knowledge managers to intrepid explorers foraging in the deep information jungle.

His commentary prompted Jennifer to recall a recent assignment. During a site survey, she discovered her client’s vital data in no logical order. Consequently, her task involved data recovery, classification and restoration. This helped staff to operate a fast, efficient and accurate retrieval process.

After Jennifer concluded, the caterers appeared with a superb choice of vegetable lasagne, cod and chips or wild boar bangers and mash. Served with a glass of wine or beer, these refreshments led to an even more convivial atmosphere.

LIKE is a networking group for Library, Information, Knowledge and Communication professionals. We meet once a month to share stories, learn and exchange knowledge in an informal and relaxed environment.

You can hear comments from those present at
http://www.likenews.org.uk/images/LIKE8%20Vox.mp3
and find out more at our website shown above.

Business Junction at Roadtrip, Shoreditch

The Roadtrip Bar in Shoreditch hosted the latest Business Junction networking evening. You can find The Roadtrip at the apex of Old Street and Great Eastern Street. Their website describes themselves “a roadside juke joint speakeasy”.

Emma Perris welcomed arrivals with lapel badges, attendees list and key information relating to the bar arrangements. We made our way through the crowd and I introduced my colleague to Chris Youd, Advantage Design and accountant Ayo Otubanjo. Ayo explained that Optima have relevant financial expertise in the media sector.

Doug Mather from business consultants, the creation company described how they help management achieve and maintain outstanding performance. Next, Phoebe Roberts greeted me. I met Phoebe at the earlier Business Junction breakfast. Her company, Positive Focus produces corporate events including the stage, set and lighting design.

I was very pleased to renew acquaintances with recruitment consultants Laura Morris and Sue Spooner. Laura’s company PA London, based in Holborn concentrates on providing top PA’s whereas Capital Recruitment Network offer situations for administrative, secretarial and customer service staff. Sue works from Capital Recruitment’s Canary Wharf office.

As the evening concluded, I conferred with top business coach Ian Cooper and spoke at length with Eleanor Greenaway from Business Advice Bureau. Business adviser Eleanor helps SME’s attract funding for growth.

There were many networkers in the audience that I didn’t get chance to swap business cards with but fortunately Business Junction hold more regular networking events. You can register through their website and follow BJ events on Twitter.

I am grateful to BJ’s Emma, Fiona, Mark and Helen from Roadtrip for organising such an enjoyable and valuable networking evening.

Business Junction – Crowne Plaza

Fiona Ross and Emma Perris from Business Junction chaired the Shoreditch Networking Breakfast at the Crowne Plaza. Just a few minutes walk from Liverpool Street, the hotel is an ideal location for visitors to the City.

Seventeen representatives attended, proving a great opportunity to engage with fellow net workers and learn more about their businesses. Mike Davis, business coach from Shirlaws received a glowing testimonial from Dan Einzig, director of design agency Mystery. Dan also drew attention to their expansion into photographic services. Matt Kearn represented digital agency Sonaa – “the biggest little agency in town”. They create websites, on-line advertising and gaming for top entertainment groups.

Phoebe Roberts, head of sales at Positive Fokus introduced their expertise in managing corporate and public events. They design, build and manage the sets for product launches, award ceremonies and concerts. They also provide the sound, lighting and stages. Craig Daid, another representative of the media sector outlined Altlaw’s 24-7 copying services for law firms and professional services.

Hannah Breen (HR and recruitment), John Donohoe, ABG Accountants, Amanda Walker, Business Smiths and Nick Coster, SAP described how their services help in-house teams and SME’s to leverage essential expertise. Nick also mentioned that he would be pleased to facilitate opportunities within his own organisation.

Visiting for the first time, Guy Insull, Appeal Director at Anchor House explained how they are seeking partners to help fund raising for homeless people in the East End. Interested parties can learn more by visiting the Anchor House website.

I would like to thank Fiona, Emma and the team at the Crowne Hotel for another valuable breakfast meeting.

You can follow Business Junction on Twitter or find more networking opportunities by following SBB.

DBC at International Hotel, Docklands

02 Sept 09

The monthly DBC lunch hosted by Clive Randall and Karla Johnson was held at the International Britannia Hotel at South Quay, Docklands. Deb Jarvis and Julie Parkes from the London Chamber were on-hand to encourage the networking.

I was very pleased to meet Carla Prowse of the enterprise team. Regular sponsors of these events, they collaborate with organisations to identify better travel choices for employees – encouraging walking, cycling, public transport and car sharing.

Next, I spoke with Wendy Trehy, specialist employment lawyer with Vizards Wyeth about typical staff issues and the serious impact they can have. I also swapped business cards with Ellie Precious from the Knowledge Dock, Doriana Arrigoni, the Business Centre Manager for DIFC Global and Chet Patel from on-line recruitment specialist R3C.

Corina Balaneanu from Dale Carnegie Training introduced herself and alerted me to their forthcoming seminar. “Effective Leadership & Communication in Challenging Times” will address public speaking, motivation and stress management. Co-sponsored by NatWest, and arranged for lunchtime on Friday, 25 September in Princes Street, EC2.

Before leaving, I recognised Lynne Richards from Action against Hunger. Lynne is the Corporate Fund Raising Manager and seeks corporate supporters to help save lives. She has already established fund raising through a restaurant charity and helped arrange an international rugby charity challenge. Check out the charity website for fund raising ideas.

Once again thanks to Clive and Karla for holding yet another valuable lunchtime group. Remember, you can follow Docklands Biz Club on Twitter.

London Chamber at IET, Savoy Place

August 6th
IET London hosted LCCI’s “Changing Places Networking Reception” at Savoy Place. Located on The Embankment, it offers panoramic views of river from St Paul’s Cathedral to The Houses of Parliament.

Although Savoy Place is the spiritual home of the Institution of Engineering and Technology – the IET administration relocated to Stevenage. Today, the building’s primary use is providing conference facilities and events.

Victoria, Kelly and Caroline from The London Chamber’s events team operate an efficient registration process. Colour coded badges identify representatives from the various market sectors. Complete with delegate list, a complimentary drink for courage and off you go looking for your first victim!

During the evening, I met Charlotte Conrad, a business psychologist who helps HR choose the right candidate and avoid acrimonious separations. In addition, Carole Raynor from Kaplan who assists companies to engage with internship programmes.

I swapped business cards with the daccreative team, brand consultant Gerald Elliott and chatted to Tom Moverley and Rajeev Singhal from the Chamber.

I knew several business contacts among the enthusiastic networkers including Lessing Financial Management, styletalks and Will Mathieson of TQ UK Ltd.

Thanks to the events teams from Savoy Place and London Chamber for providing another valuable business event.

Docklands Networking Gigs

There have been several networking opportunities during the past few weeks including Business Junction lunches, London Chamber’s Summer Party and DBC’s Business Awards Dinner. I was travelling at the time but you can check their websites for more information.

July 15th, I visited the ELBP/Archant seminar at the CCT, Docklands. Archant is an independent media group. It publishes several well-known titles such as the East London Advertiser and Hackney Gazette. Claire Evans introduced the audience to the Thames Gateway Business Awards. Last year’s winner Alexandra Kelly from Powerchex spoke about the benefits, kudos and acclaim of winning awards.

Following the presentations, I introduced myself to Deborah King (Head of Events) and spoke with Alexandra Kelly. I was interested to learn that Powerchex make a habit of winning business awards – indeed, they have just won DBC’s company of the year.

August 5th, The Novotel in Docklands hosted the DBC’s regular monthly gig “Time to Talk Business”. Clive Randall and Karla Johnson organised a lively networking lunch. Incidentally, you can follow Karla on Twitter and reserve a spot for the next event. Check out the event photo.

I arrived with web developer, Tim Sheed (Tela), renewed acquaintances with Liz Martinez Gray (EMG Events), Katrina Dixon (The Marketing Lady) and Paul Loftis, sales manager of Enterprise Plants.

New contacts included Adam and Daniel from Boulevard Catering, Helen Pescodd (Sterling Financial Consultants), Bob Roberts MBE (SRC Leadership), Clare Appleby (APS Legal Consultant) and Will Mathieson, CEO TQ UK.

I subsequently met up with Will to learn a little more about his outsourcing group and naturally to offer him Cartouche’s expert print resources.

Networking at St Stephen’s Club, Westminster

9th July 09

Business Junction held their summer networking evening at the exclusive St Stephen’s Club in Westminster.

Benjamin Disraela founded the club 130 years ago. Since then it has been a cosy retreat for leading parliamentarians including Harold Macmillan and Lady Thatcher. Adjacent to St James’s Park and boasting fine private gardens, the venue offers sumptuous accommodation for conferences, receptions, banquets and weddings.

During the evening, in the prize draw, one lucky delegate won club membership for a year.

I struck up conversation with Fiona Johnstone and Sally West, directors of translation company etymax. Etymax are renowned for their language services, helping corporate clients to communicate accurately to local markets.

Next, I bumped into Matt Grantham (sports injury physio) at the Wyndham Centre in Hatton Garden, just a few hundred yards from Cartouche. I was pleased to meet yet another fellow resident of Hatton Garden, diamond merchant Yves Frey.

The evening provided an opportunity to touch base with Business Junction’s Fiona Ross, publisher James Marsh (B3 Creative), Steetcar’s Michelle Ingham, Melanie Simpson (George Jacobsen) and graphic designer Chris Youd from Advantage Design.

Networkers that I met for the first time included photographers Lorraine Bourke and Nick Cunard, brand designer Idoia Acha (makeUP), Patrick Wagstaff from cushion the impact, Lisa Newton (Boogles, accountancy support), Kenneth Kay (Universal Security) and Tony Hoodless from Billingford.

This was yet another valuable networking event. Thanks to the Business Junction team Mark, Fiona and Emma and Carolyn Baguma of the St Stephen’s Club – the canapés were simply delicious.

Premier Docklands Biz Lunch

1st July 2009

Enterprise Travel sponsored the monthly “Time to Talk Business” luncheon hosted by Premier Inn and organised by DBC. Karla Johnson, Clive Randall, Deb Jarvis and Julie Parkes (DBC and London Chamber) and Premier Inn’s Liliana Velez greeted delegates on arrival.

Fifty companies took this opportunity to chat, swap business cards and sample the complimentary buffet and drinks. I was delighted to re-acquaint with Christine Joncour-Davies (Pro-lang), Liz Martinez-Grey (EMG Events), Claire Deciacco (Deciacco Design) and Susi Russell. Susi’s, The Power Studio has just claimed the DBC new business award. You can read more about the DBC Awards evening on-line at (The Docklands).

I met Laura Ambrose (Haslers) at a previous event, however, this time I spoke with her colleague, corporate finance manager Paul O’Gara. Paul advises on company sales and acquisitions. Tania Tiipana from Tower Hamlets College suggested I research their staff training resources and Gemma Dunbar (Rothwell IT Solutions) introduced their Web development solutions.

Before leaving I was very pleased to meet Lynne Richard the Corporate Fund Raising Manager for Action against Hunger. This international charity acts to save the lives of malnourished children. Lynne is seeking corporate supporters to engage in wide range of fund raising events. She has already encouraged over 500 restaurants to participate in www.restaurantsagainsthunger.org. Diners can also volunteer a small donation to play their part.

Thanks to Clive and Karla for organising yet another valuable lunchtime meeting.

London Chamber at CCT Venues, Canary Wharf

9th June CCT Venues, Canary Wharf, London

Despite the tube strike, there was a healthy contingent of businesses represented at ‘Changing Places’, London Chamber’s monthly networking reception.

Waterfront terrace at CCT Venues, Canary Wharf

Hosted by CCT Venues and held in bright modern conference facility with a waterfront terrace. The sponsors, HSF Health Plan, are regular supporters of Chamber events.

With all delegates present, there followed welcome addresses by Event Manager, Kelly Yates, and Caroline Bull, of CCT Venues and Stephen Duff, HSF Health Plan.

During the evening, I was pleased to meet Laura Ambrose from accountants Haslers, e-marketers Degas Guruve and Paisley Kemp from printers, Solutions in Ink. I also chatted with business coach Veronica Broomes, Nicole Line from Radio Taxis and Lesley Lant from Perennial Marketing.

You can check out the Cartouche website for forthcoming networking opportunities and past event blogs.

BT at the London Chamber

12th May, LCCI, 33 Queen Street, EC4

“Making IT and Communications work for Your Business” was presented by Emma Jones and Peter Bullivant from BT. It was hosted by the London Chamber and representatives from over thirty companies attended.

The presenters discussed current technologies and provided an insight to the benefits of convergence via BT’s 21CN network. Trials in South Wales provided customers faster uploading and downloading speeds. They can anticipate the integration of voice, mobility, video and data to accommodate high definition multimedia services.

By 2012 the telephony infrastructure in the UK will offer businesses powerful applications to help them reduce costs, manage assets and reach new customers. Even now, Cloud applications such as Salesforce and Netsuite are supported by BT. Using these programs, managers can take control of their sales and marketing through real-time reporting.

The presenters drew attention to the benefits of BT Tradespace. This directory provides free on-line promotion and includes the opportunity to post photos, videos, podcasts and blogs. Check out the Cartouche BT Tradespace here!

With the presentation completed I was free to mingle at the bar. Here I chatted with Chamber Member Simon Galea (Pickfords), Sara from Jobs2fitU.com and the team from BT including Bob Bissell and presenters Emma and Peter.

Thanks to Peter Bishop, Jenny Crouch, Victoria Jayne and their colleagues for this enjoyable and informative event.