Reflections of the Brighton Summit 2014

11th July, 2014

Networking 1

Networking Adventures!

Monica -Sales and New Business Development.


At the end of last week I had a chance to squeeze in a couple of networking events, so here is a little round up for you! I was kindly invited by Jason Edge of Mayo Wynne Baxter to the 'Where Cricket meets Football' networking dinner, held at the Sussex County Cricket Club. This was a great opportunity for me to meet some influential businesses and of course enjoy a few drinks and talk to some of the Mayo Wynne Baxter team and guests.
It was a really successful evening with great entertainment and plenty of laughter. Footballing star Matt Le Tissier and Cricket Star Tony Cottey joined in the fun with some entertaining speeches.
I even managed to get an autograph with Matt Le Tissier!

cricketI would say if you are considering hosting your own event, the Sussex CCC is a great choice of venue and I'd certainly recommend a visit even if it is just to go and see a match!
Images (c) Southern News & Pictures Ltd.

A new day, another event. This time hosted by The Brighton Chamber of Commerce.
Feeling fresh I arrived at The Clarendon Centre in Brighton ready to 'Go on an Adventure' eager to get stuck into this year's Brighton Summit!
The wonderfully motivational Steve Bustin guided us throughout the day, kicking off proceedings with an encouraging speech and preparing us for the line-up of activities.

The day was full of thought provoking and inspiring events helping us to really think creatively about the challenges in business.

I was really inspired hearing the incredible story of Rob Forkan the founder of Gandy's Flip Flops. His journey and life changing story was undoubtedly moving and learning of the philosophy of the business and their orphans for orphans mission, truly highlight how a social enterprise business can really make a difference. I am sure the majority of attendees have now converted from their trusty Havaianas Flip Flops and have already been out buying their Gandy's. Learn about their social enterprise here www.gandysflipflops.com/orphans-for-orphans.

Steve BustinFollowing a fantastic lunch provided by Jaspers Catering it was dare hour. My initial challenge was making a decision - being presented with 7 exciting dares (from improvisation, life drawing and creepy crawlies) made this a tricky choice. I chose to dare to be provocative with www.creativityworks.net.

A lesson in communications and learning how to provoke interest and help you stand out from the crowd. It helped me consider how I generate awareness for our business and encourage interest in our services.

My dare hour was followed by an 'Un-Conference' session, business lessons from 'Breaking Bad' held by Julia Chantry. Here we learnt about different levels of control and how obsession in business can be a dangerous thing - the analogy from the show offered an impressive example of how important it is to work as a team and share the load - it is all too easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to business, pressures of finding clients and keeping on top of your business development so it's always important to communicate with your team.

The day was rounded up at the emporium on London Road where we were treated to a glass of wine and entertainment by the improvisation group The Maydays. Some fantastic images of the day can be found here.

All in all an eventful end to a busy week, I really enjoyed both of these networking events but If you are interested in taking part in next year's event take a look on the Brighton Chamber of Commerce site.

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