Networking gets a bit of a reputation, doesn’t it? A room full of people clutching business cards, small talk over coffee, and maybe a few awkward silences. But let’s be real – when done right, business networking events are far from boring. In fact, they can be a genuine game-changer for your growth, visibility and connections.
Here at Social+, we don’t just turn up, shake hands and leave. We know how to make business networking events actually work for your brand, and in this blog, we’ll show you how.
What Makes a Good Networking Event?
Let’s start with the basics. A solid networking event should give you:
- A room full of people who get what you do or want to learn more
- Opportunities to chat without feeling like you’re in a sales pitch
- Tangible follow-ups – not just “nice to meet you” and silence afterwards
In the North East, business networking events come in all shapes and sizes. From morning meetups with local entrepreneurs to panel talks and after-work socials, there’s something for every style of networker.
But the ones that stand out? They’re the ones that mix structure with spontaneity. A decent agenda, speakers who bring value, and space to actually connect with people on a real level.
Why Business Networking Events Are Still Relevant
With everything going digital, it’s easy to think networking is all LinkedIn and webinars now. But face-to-face connections are so much more affective. People remember who made them laugh, who gave them an idea, who followed up with value – not just a cold DM.
In-person business networking events give you:
- The chance to explain what you do your way
- Time to understand someone else’s business without algorithms deciding what you see
- Organic moments that build trust way faster than online messages
At Social+, we attend and support business networking events across the North East because we know the power of turning online engagement into offline conversations – and vice versa.
What You Can Gain from Business Networking Events
Let’s talk results. Here’s what you can actually walk away with:
- New Leads: Genuine interest in what you offer from businesses in the region
- Collaborations: From joint campaigns to supplier partnerships – local connections lead to new opportunities
- Inspiration: Hearing how others overcame challenges or pivoted their strategy can give you the nudge you didn’t know you needed
- Confidence: Every event builds your brand presence, sharpens your pitch and grows your network
And if you’ve been burned by awkward networking before – don’t worry. The right events are inclusive, friendly, and genuinely helpful.
What Network+ Offers for Business Networking
At Social+, we created Network+ because we believe networking should feel natural, ongoing and genuinely useful.
Here’s what’s on offer through Network+:
- Mastermind Meetings: Weekly face-to-face sessions where you can review your digital presence, reflect on challenges and build real business relationships.
- Evening Events: Monthly one-off events held at exciting venues like Hadrian’s Tower 3Sixty and Twenty Twenty, giving you the chance to socialise, connect and unwind after work.
- Training Sessions: Quarterly digital marketing workshops covering key topics to help you grow your brand online and offline.
- Consultancy: Access tailored social media audits, website audits, and digital strategy advice to strengthen your business foundation.
Business networking events like those run through Network+ are designed to support you consistently, not just for a single meeting. It’s all about keeping momentum going – online and offline.
If you’re a Social+ client, you’re already part of this growing network. And if you’re new? Your first meeting is free to try it out.
Networking in 2025: Make It Worth Your Time
The biggest shift we’re seeing? People are becoming more intentional. No one wants to waste their time at events that don’t deliver. So set your goals before you show up:
- Do you want to meet potential clients?
- Are you looking for collaborators?
- Do you want to raise your local profile?
And most importantly – follow up. Send a message, share a post, book a coffee. Business networking events aren’t magic. The magic is in what you do next.
Let’s Build a Network That Works
At Social+, we support businesses across the North East with strategy-first digital marketing – and that includes helping you make the most of real-world opportunities. We’re not here to spam people with leaflets. We’re here to help you show up smart, build real relationships, and make networking part of a marketing strategy that works.
Want to know which business networking events could help your brand grow? Let’s chat.
Recent Comments