You might recall that last week, we announced that our CEO Lee-Ann Johnstone is hosting an online networking party next month.
Taking place on the evening of 22nd May 2020, between 17:00 and 19:00 BST, it’ll kick the end-of-month Bank Holiday off the right way.
Today, Lee-Ann will explain why you should join in at this event:
AffiliateINISIDER: How do you think that people who engage in casual networking events, as well as the more formal ones, will benefit after the virus – compared to those who don’t?
Lee-Ann Johnstone: “Firstly, any networking event is a good event to attend right now. This is the time to grow your database, build authority and remain visible. Being present at these events helps you to do that, and anything that is free and helps to promote your business is a good thing to be a part of.
“We’ve had a lovely response from people in our community. It seems that Covid-19 has brought out the best in us and forced people to collaborate on a new level. I’m looking forward to meeting more new faces in the coming weeks.
“For those that don’t participate, I’m pretty sure there will be a lull in human connection. Perhaps you’ll need to work harder on exit to build up that customer and partnership rapport. I don’t see why anyone would not want to attend these events – there’s no reason not to?
AI: What are the biggest reasons that you think people should join the Digital Mixer?
LJ: “My main aim with hosting this event is to bring people together, in as short an amount of time that our already-crammed schedules will allow, to get business done.
“This is about helping small business owners to thrive and providing a platform and community environment for that to happen. Anyone who knows me will know that content is always at the heart of what I do. This time, networking is going to be the priority. If you have a business that offers services, come sell them.
“If you have a business that needs to network with operators, come and meet them. If you want to offer a promotion, come and advertise it. Everyone is welcome at this event.
“We’ll be facilitating introductions and support connections and business promotion throughout the running of it. This event is about getting new business, getting deals done, and connecting with people who are interested in buying and selling their digital marketing service. Everyone taking up a seat will be expected to engage. There will be no room for lurkers. This is about getting seen and heard, so be prepared and come with a smile!”
AI: How are you ensuring that the party will be fun for all involved, while remaining educational?
LJ: “Well, I think right now we all could do with a bit of fun. I’ve hired one of London’s premier mixologists to help get the party started.
“We’ll be learning how to make a cocktail or mocktail (your choice), using ingredients that anyone would have in their cupboard. This should help us open up the mixer and get everyone ready to mingle. There will be a series of opportunities to prepare and chat ahead of the event.
Simply follow these three steps to participate:
2) Join the event Facebook Group to get social
3) Introduce yourself, your business, and list what you are offering, wanting , selling
4) Join us for the live event and get your deals done.
It’s really that simple. On the day there will be a series of events, and games and an opportunity to win some fantastic prizes too thanks to our partners and collaborators.”
AI: And finally… once the current global situation subsides, how do you think in-person networking parties will change compared to before?
LJ: “I think that people will stick with virtual meetings, events and networking. This whole experience has changed the way we do business, how we run our schedules and how we commit to respect one another’s time.
“I think this is an incredible opportunity for business owners and sales associates to reconsider how they generate leads, network, spend their budgets and engage audiences online. Sure, physical events will remain a big part of our marketing activities – especially in this industry where networking is a vital part of business generation. But I have enjoyed the innovation that virtual events have offered and I think others will continue to use it too.
“Nobody really knows how this pandemic will change our economy for certain, but one thing we do know is that we are working in the right industry. Online marketing and business can still function in times of social isolation, and that’s a great place to be. If you haven’t yet attended a virtual gathering or you’ve been waiting for a personal invitation – this is it!”
Come join me and my team and a host of affiliates, operators, agencies and suppliers and come get new business done at this Digital Marketing Mixer.
Don’t forget to RSVP for the party on our Facebook page too. We look forward to seeing you on 22nd May!
