Category Archives for Guest Blogger

Giving the Next Generation a Voice: Why One Conversation Can Change a Life

Why Young People Need Real Experiences, Not Just Observation

One thing that struck me during the programme was how quickly the atmosphere changed once the students realised this wasn’t simply about sitting quietly in the corner and observing.

They became part of the conversation.

They were encouraged to ask questions.

They shared their own thoughts and aspirations.

They discovered that every experienced broadcaster, journalist and business owner once stood exactly where they are now—taking those first uncertain steps into the world of work.

Real work experience should never be about making tea or photocopying paperwork.

It should be about building confidence.

Giving young people permission to contribute.

Showing them that their opinions matter.

Helping them discover strengths they perhaps didn’t know they possessed.

Sometimes all it takes is one positive experience to change the way a young person sees themselves.

Confidence Doesn’t Arrive Overnight

Confidence is something I speak about regularly at 1230 The Women’s Company.

People often imagine confident people were simply born that way.

The truth is usually very different.

Confidence grows through experience.

It grows through conversations.

It grows by saying “yes” to opportunities that feel slightly outside your comfort zone.

Walking into a radio studio for the first time can feel intimidating.

Walking into a networking event can feel intimidating.

Giving a presentation can feel intimidating.

Starting a new job can feel intimidating.

Yet every confident person you meet has almost certainly experienced those same butterflies at some point.

The difference is that they chose to keep going.

Perhaps one day these five young people will look back on their afternoon in the radio studio as one of those defining moments when they realised they were capable of far more than they imagined.

The Importance of Listening

As someone who has spent more than two decades bringing people together through networking, I often say that the best communicators aren’t necessarily the best talkers.

They’re the best listeners.

During the programme, it was wonderful to watch the students listening carefully to one another as well as to the conversations taking place around them.

Listening isn’t passive.

It is an active skill.

It’s how we learn.

It’s how we understand different perspectives.

And it’s how meaningful relationships begin.

Whether you’re interviewing someone on the radio, attending a networking meeting or simply meeting somebody for coffee, listening is often the greatest gift you can give.

Why Local Businesses Matter

Work experience also reminds us of something else.

Communities thrive when local businesses work together.

Life In… Magazines gave these young people an opportunity.

The radio station welcomed them into the studio.

Other local businesses continue to support work placements, apprenticeships and mentoring opportunities throughout our borough.

Each organisation may only play a small part.

But collectively those parts create something much bigger.

They create opportunity.

And opportunity has a remarkable habit of multiplying.

One introduction becomes another.

One conversation leads to another.

One opportunity creates another.

That’s exactly how strong business communities are built.

Every Conversation Has the Potential to Change a Life

People sometimes ask why I enjoy networking so much.

The answer is actually very simple.

Because I never know which conversation is going to matter.

It may be the conversation that introduces someone to their future employer.

It may be the conversation that starts a new business partnership.

It may be the conversation that gives someone the confidence to launch a business.

Or perhaps it’s simply the conversation that reminds someone they’re capable of achieving more than they thought possible.

That’s why I still become excited every time I walk into a room full of people.

Because conversations change lives.

I’ve seen it happen time and time again.

Looking to the Future

I sincerely hope each of these young people continues following their ambitions, wherever those ambitions eventually lead.

Perhaps one will become a journalist.

Another may work in broadcasting.

One may pursue forensic science.

Someone else may discover an entirely different career they haven’t even considered yet.

Whatever happens, I hope they remember that somebody believed in them enough to say:

“Come and have a go.”

Those four words can sometimes alter the direction of a life.

My Final Thought

As I left the studio that afternoon, I found myself smiling.

Not simply because we’d recorded another enjoyable radio programme.

Not simply because the students had embraced the opportunity with enthusiasm.

But because I was reminded why I still love doing what I do after all these years.

Every week I have the privilege of meeting extraordinary people.

Some have decades of experience.

Some are only just beginning.

But every one of them has a story.

Every one of them has something to teach us.

And every one of them deserves the chance to be heard.

Perhaps that’s what the 1230 TWC Business Beat Radio Show has really become.

A place where conversations become confidence.

Where introductions become opportunities.

Where knowledge becomes inspiration.

And where one simple question continues to open doors…

“Tell me about you.”

Giving the Next Generation a Voice

You never know who you’ll meet, what you’ll learn, or where one conversation might lead.

Listen to and discover more from 1230 TWC Business Beat Radio

PODCASTS

Jackie Groundsell
The Queen of Connections
1230 TWC

Why the Chatham House Rule Matters More Than Ever in Business Networking

Creating Conversations Built on Trust, Respect and Confidence

When people think about business networking, they often picture exchanging business cards, making introductions and building professional relationships. Whilst all of those things are important, the most valuable part of any networking meeting is often something much less obvious.

It’s trust.

At 1230 The Women’s Company (1230 TWC), we’ve always believed that the best business conversations happen when people feel comfortable enough to be themselves. For over two decades, we’ve created welcoming, supportive environments where businesswomen can share ideas, ask questions, celebrate successes and sometimes even admit that things aren’t going quite to plan.

One of the ways we encourage this openness is by observing the Chatham House Rule.

It may sound formal, but its purpose is actually very simple.

It helps create an atmosphere where honest conversations can flourish.

What is the Chatham House Rule?

The Chatham House Rule states that participants are free to use the information received during a meeting, but neither the identity nor the affiliation of the speaker, nor that of any other participant, may be revealed without their permission.

In simple terms:

You are welcome to share what you have learned.

You do not share who said it.

It isn’t about secrecy.

It isn’t about confidentiality agreements.

It’s about respect.

It allows people to speak openly, knowing that their experiences, ideas and questions won’t later be attributed to them without their consent.

Why Does This Matter in Business?

Running a business isn’t always easy.

Behind every successful entrepreneur is someone making decisions, solving problems and sometimes facing uncertainty.

There are occasions when business owners want to ask questions such as:

• “Has anyone else experienced this?”
• “How would you deal with this client?”
• “Am I charging enough?”
• “Has anyone navigated this legislation before?”
• “I’m struggling with confidence—has anyone else felt like this?”

These are real conversations.

But they only happen when people feel safe enough to ask them.

If someone worries that their comments may be repeated outside the room, they are far more likely to remain silent.

Silence helps no one.

Trust helps everyone.

Networking is About Relationships, Not Transactions

One of the things I’ve learned over more than twenty years of bringing businesswomen together is that networking has never really been about selling.

It’s about relationships.

Business naturally follows when relationships are built on trust, mutual respect and genuine interest in one another.

The strongest professional relationships are rarely created because someone gave the best sales pitch.

They grow because people feel comfortable, understood and respected.

That’s why the atmosphere in a room matters just as much as the people in it.

A Safe Space Creates Better Conversations

Every 1230 TWC meeting is different because every woman brings her own experiences, expertise and perspective.

Sometimes conversations are light-hearted.

Sometimes they’re practical.

Occasionally, they’re deeply personal.

A business challenge may be linked to caring responsibilities, health, confidence, financial pressures or unexpected life events.

By observing the Chatham House Rule, we’re saying:

“This is a respectful place to learn from one another.”

People can ask questions they might never ask elsewhere.

They can share lessons learned without worrying that someone will repeat their story later over coffee or on social media.

The result?

More honest conversations.

More meaningful support.

Stronger business communities.

Learning Without Judgement

One of the greatest myths in business is that successful people always have the answers.

They don’t.

Successful people ask questions.

They seek advice.

They learn from others.

Some of the most valuable conversations I’ve witnessed over the years have started with someone saying:

“I’ve never told anyone this before…”

or

“I hope this doesn’t sound silly…”

Those conversations often become the turning point for someone else sitting quietly around the table thinking exactly the same thing.

That is the power of a trusted environment.

Respecting the Person Behind the Business

Every business has a human being behind it.

Sometimes we forget that.

Business owners experience the same challenges as everyone else.

Family responsibilities.

Health concerns.

Unexpected setbacks.

Moments of self-doubt.

Success is easier to celebrate—and challenges easier to overcome—when we know we’re surrounded by people who genuinely want to help rather than judge.

The Chatham House Rule supports that culture of kindness and respect.

Trust is Built One Conversation at a Time

Trust doesn’t appear overnight.

It grows gradually.

Every respectful conversation strengthens it.

Every promise kept reinforces it.

Every confidence honoured builds it further.

Eventually, something wonderful happens.

People stop worrying about saying the “right” thing and simply start having real conversations.

Those conversations lead to ideas.

Ideas lead to collaborations.

Collaborations lead to opportunities.

And opportunities change businesses.

Sometimes they even change lives.

The 1230 TWC Difference

At 1230 The Women’s Company, we don’t observe the Chatham House Rule because we have to.

We observe it because it reflects our values.

We believe businesswomen deserve spaces where they can learn openly, share honestly and support one another without fear of being quoted or misrepresented.

It creates a culture where conversations become richer, relationships become stronger and everyone benefits from the collective knowledge and experience in the room.

It’s one of the many reasons women return month after month.

Not just because of the networking.

But because of how they feel when they’re there.

Final Thoughts

In a world where information travels instantly and social media often encourages people to share everything, trust has become one of the most valuable assets any business community can offer.

The Chatham House Rule reminds us that whilst ideas are meant to be shared, people deserve respect.

It encourages openness without compromising privacy.

It creates confidence without creating barriers.

Most importantly, it helps build communities where people feel comfortable enough to have the conversations that really matter.

At 1230 TWC, we’ve always believed that the best opportunities begin with a conversation.

And the best conversations begin with trust.

Because you never know who you’ll meet, what you’ll learn, or where one trusted conversation might lead.

Jackie Groundsell
The Queen of Connections
1230 TWC

Your Database is Your Gold Dust – Don’t Let “Hello Jgroundsell Jgroundsell” Be Your First Impression

This morning, I received a spam email.

It began:

“Hello Jgroundsell Jgroundsell…”

Now, aside from the fact that it was clearly not written with care or intention, it highlighted something far more important — and something I see time and time again in business.

Poorly structured databases.

And here’s the truth…

Your database is not just a list of names.

It is one of the most valuable assets in your business.

First Impressions Happen in Seconds

Before someone reads your message, clicks your link, or considers working with you, they notice how you address them.

“Hello Jackie” feels warm, human and intentional.

“Hello Jgroundsell Jgroundsell” feels careless, automated and — quite frankly — unprofessional.

And in that moment, trust is either built… or lost.

Where It Goes Wrong

Most database issues don’t start with bad intention — they start with shortcuts.

• Names entered into one field instead of two
• First and last names combined
• Data copied and pasted without checking
• Systems not set up properly from the beginning

And then, over time, the problem compounds.

Emails go out.
Messages are automated.
And suddenly, your brand is communicating in a way that doesn’t reflect who you are.

Back to Basics: Structure Matters

If you take one thing from this, let it be this:

Your database must be structured correctly from day one.

At the very least, you should have:

• First Name
• Last Name
• Email Address
• (And where relevant) Company Name

Not:

• “Jackie Groundsell” in one field
• Or worse… duplicated entries like the one I received

Because once your data is messy, it becomes harder and harder to fix.

Excel is a Brilliant Starting Point

You do not need complicated systems to begin with.

A simple, well-structured Excel spreadsheet is more than enough.

But — and this is important — it must be set up correctly:

• Separate columns
• Consistent formatting
• No shortcuts

Think of it as laying the foundations of your business relationships.

Because that is exactly what it is.

From List to Relationship

This is where it connects beautifully with networking.

You already know (and I say this often!) that:

Networking is about relationships, not transactions.

Well… your database is where those relationships live.

Every name represents:

• A conversation
• A connection
• An opportunity

And how you store and use that information matters.

DPR – Not Optional

We also cannot talk about databases without mentioning GDPR.

Being GDPR compliant is not just a legal requirement — it is about respect.

• Do people know they are on your list?
• Have they given permission?
• Can they easily opt out?

When your database is clean, structured and compliant, you are building trust at every level.

Small Details, Big Impact

It is easy to overlook this.

It is easy to say, “I’ll tidy it later.”

But the truth is:

Small details create big impressions.

A correctly addressed email says:
“I see you.”
“I value you.”
“I care about this connection.”

And in business, that matters more than ever.

A Quick Checklist for You

Here’s a simple check you can do today:

•  Do I have separate fields for first and last name?
•  Are names correctly capitalised?
• Are there duplicates in my system?
•  Am I confident my emails feel personal?
•  Am I GDPR compliant?

If not — now is the perfect time to tidy things up.

Final Thought

That one email — “Hello Jgroundsell Jgroundsell” — will be forgotten.

But the lesson behind it shouldn’t be.

Because your database is not admin.

It is not background work.

It is the heartbeat of your business connections.

•  Treat it with care.
•  Structure it properly
•  And let every message you send reflect the professionalism and warmth you stand for.

Jackie Groundsell
The Queen of Connections
1230 TWC

From a Swimming Pool Changing Room to a Growing Business: The Story Behind Go Goosey

Four Years In: When Reflection Matters as Much as Momentum

Go Goosey has been going for just over four years now, and if I’m being completely honest, this year feels like crunch time.
I’m someone who naturally looks forward. I’m always thinking about what’s next, what more I can do, and how I can make this business a long-term success. But I’ve learned that as a small business owner, it’s just as important to pause, look back, and remind yourself how far you’ve come, and why you started in the first place.
Because when things feel tough (and they often do), that “why” really matters.

The Parenting Moment That Sparked an Idea

The idea for Go Goosey didn’t come from a boardroom, a trend forecast, or a background in fashion or retail. It came from a very real, very emotional parenting moment.
I took my adopted daughter swimming for the first time. I was so excited, genuinely excited to introduce her to the joy of the water, just as my dad had done with me when I was little. It felt like one of those moments you picture in advance: splashing, laughter, confidence-building, a memory we’d both treasure.
And the swimming part was exactly that.

When a Lovely Day Turned Into Changing Room Chaos

But then we got out of the pool… and the changing room hell began.
She was cold and crying. I was cold. The changing rooms were cramped, damp, and chaotic. Clothes stuck to her wet skin. Towels slipped. I was trying to comfort her while also wrestling soggy fabric, all the while standing there freezing myself. What should have been the calm end to a lovely family trip turned into stress, tears, and frustration.
It completely spoiled the experience.

“Surely There Has to Be an Easier Way”

That night, lying in bed replaying it all, I remember thinking: Surely there has to be an easier way than this.
I’m not from a fashion or retail background. I’m absolutely useless with a needle, something that has since been proven many times over while attempting to sew my daughter’s Brownie badges. Starting a children’s clothing brand was not something I ever imagined doing. But I couldn’t shake the idea.

From Non-Fashion Background to Relentless Curiosity

What if there was something a child could put straight on after swimming?
Something warm, absorbent, quick-drying, and easy?
Something that removed at least part of that post-swim stress for parents and grandparents?

Six Years of Slow, Determined Progress

What followed wasn’t an overnight success story; it was six years of slow, determined work.
I researched fabrics obsessively. I spoke to suppliers. I tested materials. I asked a friend to help me make an early sample using a onesie pattern, just to see if the idea worked in real life. Eventually, I connected with a local fashion student who helped bring the concept properly to life.

The Birth of Go Goosey

In September 2021, Go Goosey was finally born.

What’s in a Name? The Inspiration Behind Go Goosey

Some people assume the name comes from goosebumps, that cold, shivery feeling after swimming. But actually, it’s inspired by the goose’s feathers, which are naturally water-repellent. Just like our fabric, they don’t just shed water – they dry incredibly quickly. Our onesies don’t just dry children; they dry on them.

Designing With Purpose, Not Trends

We launched with a single unisex colour. That decision was deliberate. I wanted something practical, something that could be passed down to siblings or shared with friends. I knew this wasn’t an everyday purchase; it was a luxury item, but it was also so much more than just a changing towel. It was about easing stress, saving time, and making outings more enjoyable.

The Highs: Recognition, Belief, and Unexpected Breakthroughs

Like most small businesses, the journey since then has been a mix of incredible highs and very real lows.
We’ve been nominated for two local business awards, moments that felt surreal and validating. We were given £6,000 by Simon Squibb, an international entrepreneur and social media influencer who asks people one simple question: “What’s your dream?” Our post reached over 10,000 likes and attracted hundreds of comments of encouragement and support from complete strangers who believed in what we were building.

When the BBC Came Calling

Another huge highlight was appearing on BBC Radio 4’s The Bottom Line with Evan Davis, talking about side hustles. I didn’t even mention our website, yet we sold 60 onesies in a single day and over 200 in total directly from that one airing. I received so many messages afterwards, particularly from grandparents, telling me how much they loved the idea and how useful it sounded.
Those moments are the ones I hold onto.

The Lows: Cash Flow, Doubt, and Juggling It All

But there have been lows, too. I still haven’t been able to pay myself from the business. Every day is a fight to get the product seen without a marketing budget. There are constant worries about loan repayments, cash flow, and whether I’m doing enough. I juggle Go Goosey alongside my main job as an IT recruitment consultant — the job that thankfully pays the bills and keeps everything afloat.

The Reality of Small Business Ownership

Running a small business is exhausting, exhilarating, and terrifying all at once.

Why Go Goosey Still Matters — and Why I’m Still Here

So, as I look ahead, knowing that this year really matters, I also want to acknowledge how far Go Goosey has come. What started as one cold, stressful moment in a swimming pool changing room has turned into a product that genuinely helps families. Every message, every review, every order reminds me that the struggle is worth it.
And that’s why I’m still here, working, pushing, believing — and why I’m so grateful to everyone who has supported Go Goosey along the way.

author – karen burke

Ghosts of the West End

 Haunted Tales from London’s Theatreland!

The West End dazzles with neon lights, red carpets and thunderous applause. Each night, audiences flock to London’s Theatreland to lose themselves in music, drama and spectacle. But when the curtain falls, the crowds disappear and the stage lights dim, another world begins to stir!

Dare You Sit in One of London’s Many Haunted Theatres?

At Stage Door Tours, we love stories that send a shiver down the spine just as much as we love sharing hilarious backstage mishaps and theatrical secrets. Join us as we step into the darker side of the West End — where history and hauntings entwine, and restless spirits still linger in the wings.

In the quiet hours after midnight, shadows creep across velvet curtains, footsteps echo in empty aisles, and whispers drift through darkened corridors. For centuries, London’s theatres have been places of intense emotion — triumph and heartbreak, fame and failure, life-changing moments played out beneath the spotlight. Perhaps it’s no wonder that some spirits have refused to leave the stage behind.

London’s theatres are among the oldest in the world, some rebuilt multiple times after fires, wars and renovations. Beneath their ornate façades lie layers of history — and, according to many performers and staff, layers of paranormal activity too. Ghostly sightings, unexplained sounds and eerie sensations are so common in Theatreland that many actors speak of them with a casual shrug… at least in daylight.

Once the house lights go down, however, bravery can quickly falter.

The Theatre Royal, Drury Lane – The Man in Grey

No theatre on Earth is more famous for its ghosts than the Theatre Royal, Drury Lane. With a history stretching back to 1663, it has seen centuries of performances — and, some believe, centuries of hauntings. 

Its most infamous resident is the Man in Grey, a silent apparition often glimpsed drifting through the upper circle. Dressed in an 18th-century cloak, tricorn hat and powdered wig, he is said to glide along the aisles before vanishing straight into the wall. Unlike many theatrical ghosts, he isn’t considered threatening. In fact, his appearance is regarded as a good omen — a sign that the show will be a resounding success.

The legend deepened during renovations in the 1800s, when builders reportedly uncovered a skeleton concealed within the theatre’s walls, clutching a dagger. Was this the Man in Grey, murdered and hidden away? Or merely a coincidence that fed the theatre’s already rich folklore? Whatever the truth, ushers, actors and audience members alike have sworn to see him — always watching, never speaking.

Drury Lane is also said to host other spirits: a distressed woman in white, phantom footsteps on the stage, and the sound of children laughing long after the doors have closed. For a theatre steeped in drama, it seems fitting that its ghosts are equally theatrical.

His Majesty’s Theatre – The Phantom Before the Phantom

Long before Andrew Lloyd Webber’s Phantom of the Opera made the theatre world-famous, His Majesty’s Theatre already had a spectral reputation!

Stagehands working late at night report hearing mysterious music drifting from the empty orchestra pit — soft notes with no visible musician. Sudden icy drafts sweep across the stalls, even when doors are firmly shut, and lights have been known to flicker inexplicably during rehearsals.

Some performers whisper of an unseen presence watching from the shadows of the royal box, observing silently as if guarding the theatre. Is it a former actor unwilling to relinquish their favourite seat? Or a benevolent spirit ensuring performances go smoothly? The irony is not lost on cast members that a theatre now synonymous with a masked ghost may have harboured one long before the famous chandelier ever fell.

The Palace Theatre – Shadows at Cambridge Circus

Standing proudly at Cambridge Circus, the Palace Theatre was originally built as a grand opera house — and many believe it still clings to its operatic past.

Staff have reported doors slamming shut with no one nearby, lights flickering on and off, and an overwhelming feeling of being watched in the upper levels. A brooding presence seems to linger backstage, particularly late at night when the building is quiet.

According to legend, the ghost may be a former manager, fiercely devoted to the theatre in its early days. Some say he remains bound to the building, ensuring the show goes on no matter what. Others claim he disapproves of the modern musicals that replaced the operas he loved — and makes his displeasure known through unexplained disturbances.

Whether protector or critic, the Palace Theatre’s shadowy resident certainly hasn’t taken his final bow.

Superstitions of the Stage

Where there are ghosts, there are superstitions — and theatre is famously full of them. Many traditions were born from genuine danger in centuries past, while others seem designed purely to appease whatever spirits might be lurking backstage.

One of the most enduring is the ghost light: a single lamp left glowing centre stage overnight. Practically, it prevents accidents in the dark. Superstitiously, it’s said to keep wandering spirits occupied — or at least stop them from causing mischief.

Whistling backstage is strictly forbidden. In the days of gas lighting and flying scenery, whistles were used as cues for scene changes. A careless tune could trigger a dangerous mishap — or, if legend is to be believed, summon something far worse.

And then there’s the Scottish play. Few performers dare speak the name “Macbeth” inside a theatre, for fear of invoking a curse that has plagued productions for centuries. Those who do must quickly spin around, swear loudly and ask permission to re-enter — just in case the spirits were listening.

Dare to Discover the West End’s Ghosts?

Behind every stage door lies more than stories of glamour and applause. There are whispers of tragedy, echoes of forgotten performances, and spirits who refuse to leave the place they loved most.

Theatres are living buildings — shaped by the passion, ambition and emotion poured into them night after night. Perhaps that energy never truly fades.

Why not join Stage Door Tours and walk the haunted heart of London’s West End? Hear tales of actors who never left the stage, glimpse the shadows behind the curtain, and uncover the ghostly legends that give Theatreland its spine-tingling magic.

AUTHOR: ERICA HASLAM

Beyond the Spotlight: Professionalism in the Speaking World

Speaking opportunities are powerful. Whether it’s a keynote, a breakout session, a panel discussion or a community workshop, being invited to speak means being trusted — trusted with people’s time, attention, curiosity, and learning. It is a privilege that opens doors, builds reputations and connects speakers with audiences who may become clients, collaborators, champions or supporters for years to come.

And yet, organisers frequently ask the same quiet, private question:

“Do speakers truly value and maximise on the opportunities they’re given?”

It’s not a criticism. It’s not a judgement.
It’s a genuine reflection — born out of experience, observation, and the desire to create great events.

For many speakers, the answer is a heartfelt yes.
For others, it may be yes… but they don’t always show it.
And for some, it becomes yes… but only once they realise what was missed.

This blog is to help speakers — new and seasoned — understand what organisers look for, what audiences appreciate, and how valuing an opportunity enriches both the speaker and the event.

Because when speakers show they value the opportunity, the whole experience becomes stronger, smoother and more successful for everyone.

1. Valuing the Opportunity Starts Before the Event

When a speaker accepts an invitation, their relationship with the organiser begins immediately. And how they approach the lead-up says more about them than the talk itself.

Here’s what valuing the opportunity looks like before you take the stage:

Responding promptly

Timely replies to emails, messages and requests set the tone. Organisers juggle schedules, promotion and logistics — quick responses make their work infinitely easier.

Supplying materials when requested

Event pages, programmes and marketing rely on bios, headshots, talk titles and descriptions. Sending these promptly is an act of respect for the event and the audience.

Understanding the brief

Speakers who value the opportunity take the time to understand:

• • What the organiser wants
  • Who the audience is
  • What outcome the session should create
  • How their talk fits into the wider event

This shows care, professionalism and alignment.

Checking technical needs early

Clarifying slides, audio, room layout, timing and equipment well in advance avoids last-minute stress. It also reassures organisers that the speaker is prepared and invested.

2. Valuing the Opportunity While On Stage

This is where speakers shine — or occasionally stumble.

Audiences and organisers notice far more than the content. They sense intention, presence, and genuine enthusiasm for being there.

Here’s what speakers who value the platform demonstrate:

Showing up on time and ready

Arriving early, not rushed, allows space for calm setup, tech checks and connection with the room.

Speaking to the time given

A professional speaker knows that going over time doesn’t make their message more powerful — it strains the programme, pushes others off-schedule and can frustrate the audience.

Keeping to time is one of the greatest signs of respect.

Being fully present

Valuing an opportunity means being:

• • Engaged
  • Attentive
  • Enthusiastic
  • Connected to the room
  • Professional in tone and attitude

Audiences feel it instantly.

Tailoring the content

Great speakers don’t deliver a copy-and-paste talk. They adapt examples, stories and emphasis to the specific audience they are speaking to. This creates relevance and impact.

3. Valuing the Opportunity After the Event

This is where long-term relationships are built — and sadly where many speakers forget to follow through.

Here’s how truly professional speakers show appreciation after stepping off the stage:

A simple thank you

A short, heartfelt message of thanks to the organiser is powerful. They remember it. They feel valued. And they’re far more likely to book you again.

Sharing the event on social media

Posting before and/or after the event:

• • Shows support
  • Expands reach
  • Reflects well on the speaker
  • Helps the organiser in future promotions

It’s a small action with big impact.

Following up with attendees

This can be as simple as:

• • Responding to messages
  • Sharing a resource
  • Reconnecting with people you met at the event

It strengthens relationships and demonstrates generosity.

4. Why Valuing the Opportunity Matters

When speakers truly appreciate the platform they’ve been given, several things happen:

Organisers notice — and remember

Professionalism stands out. It’s rare enough that when organisers see it consistently, they cherish it. That goodwill leads to:

• • Repeat invitations
  • Recommendations
  • Increased visibility
  • A glowing reputation behind the scenes

Audiences feel respected

They walk away with:

• • A positive impression
  • A sense that the speaker cared
  • A memorable experience

And they talk about it.

The event flows better

When everyone is prepared, aligned and respectful of time, the organiser can breathe — and the event feels polished and seamless.

The speaker’s brand strengthens

Reliable, grounded, collaborative speakers rise above the noise. They become the ones people trust, book and speak highly of.

5. A Gentle Reminder for Speakers: Opportunities Are Collaborations, Not Entitlements

Every speaking slot — large or small — represents:

• • Someone believing in your message
  • An organiser putting their reputation behind you
  • An audience giving you their time
  • A chance to influence, support and inspire

None of this is guaranteed.
None of it is owed.
All of it matters.

And when a speaker shows they value the opportunity, they lift the entire experience.

6. A Final Thought

Most speakers genuinely do value the platform they’re given. Sometimes they simply need a reminder that their actions — not their intentions — signal their professionalism.

The truth is simple:

The speakers who appreciate opportunities are the speakers who keep getting them.

Most speakers do value the platform they’re given — deeply. Sometimes, however, in the rush of busy schedules, deadlines, business demands and travel, the actions that demonstrate appreciation get lost. It’s rarely intentional. It’s simply life moving quickly. But this is where the opportunity lies.

Because true professionalism isn’t just about delivering a great talk. It’s about the way a speaker prepares, the way they honour the organiser’s time, the energy they bring into the room, and the gratitude they show afterwards. These small, thoughtful gestures are often what organisers remember most — the signs that a speaker understands the privilege of being trusted with a stage.

Speakers who consistently show this level of care naturally rise to the top. They build stronger relationships, they receive more invitations, and they become known not only for their expertise, but for the integrity and respect they bring to every engagement. Their reputation grows quietly, steadily, meaningfully — the way the best reputations do.

So this is simply a gentle reminder, wrapped in encouragement: Valuing a speaking opportunity is one of the most powerful ways to elevate your impact.

When speakers show appreciation through their actions, they don’t just enhance the event — they strengthen their own voice, deepen their professional relationships, and create a ripple of goodwill that lasts long after the applause stops.

In the end, it’s simple:
The speakers who cherish the opportunity become the speakers people champion.
And that serves everyone — the speaker, the organiser, and the audience — in the most positive and inspiring way.

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Testimonials: Your Secret Sales Team (That Never Sleeps)

Why Social Proof Isn’t “Nice to Have” — It’s a Growth Engine

Let’s be honest: we’d all love our marketing to work so well that new clients simply appear, pre-warmed, pre-sold, and happily asking, “Where do I sign?” While you perfect that cloning machine, there’s a far simpler, proven route to trust: testimonials.

Testimonials are the social proof that turns curiosity into confidence. They reassure nervous buyers, nudge fence-sitters, and neutralise objections—often better than any feature list. When done well, they become a compound-growth asset you can use everywhere.

The Psychology: Why Testimonials Convert

• Trust transfer: People are wired to follow the experiences of others. When a peer sings your praises, the buyer’s brain relaxes.
• Risk reduction: A good testimonial says, “I took the leap and it worked.” That reduces perceived risk far more than a polished pitch ever can.
• Specific > generic: A line like, “They were great!” is lovely… and useless. Specific outcomes (time saved, revenue gained, anxiety reduced) influence decisions.

Pro tip: Metrics make the magic—“We cut onboarding time from 2 hours to 20 minutes” beats “We saved time.”

The Testimonial Flywheel

Collecting testimonials isn’t a random act of delighted clients. Think in terms of a system—a flywheel that gathers momentum:

1. Collect
   Ask quickly—within 24–72 hours of a win. Use 2–3 smart prompts to get specifics.
2. Curate
   Edit for clarity (with permission). Prioritise quotes that include a result and who the client is.
3. Publish
   Website, proposals, landing pages, social posts, email signatures, and printed materials.
4. Repurpose
   Turn quotes into caselets, carousels, reels, speaker slides, and objection-busters.

Keep the flywheel spinning and you’ll always have fresh proof at hand.

What Makes a “High-Conversion” Testimonial?

• Context: Who is the client (role/industry) and what was their challenge?
• Moment of change: What shifted during or after working with you?
• Outcome: What improved—time, revenue, peace of mind, clarity?
• Texture: A line of personality or emotion. Buyers are human; let it show.

Weak: “Great service. Would recommend.”
Strong: “Within 30 days, we had a clear sales process and two new partners. The weekly check-ins kept us moving when we would normally stall.”

7 Places to Put Testimonials (That Aren’t Just Your Website)

• Proposal decks — a short quote on the cover or near your pricing.
• Service pages — next to each offer; match the testimonial to the service.
• Email signatures — a one-liner with a link to the case study.
• Social proof strip — homepage carousel with logos + short quotes.
• Checkout/booking pages — reduce last-minute jitters.
• Event pages — from attendees and sponsors; lift registrations.
• Slides & webinars — testify while you teach.

“Ask Smarter” Prompts (That Get Better Answers)

Instead of “Could you write me a testimonial?” try:

1. What was happening before you worked with us (and what did you want to change)?
2. What felt different within the first 1–2 weeks?
3. What result are you most pleased with (numbers welcome!)?
4. If a friend asked whether to work with us, what would you tell them?

Permission to lightly edit for clarity is key—add it to your form so you can tidy typos without changing intent.

A Dash of Humour (Because Boring Doesn’t Convert)

Testimonials don’t need to read like legal affidavits. Let your client’s voice shine:

“We went from ‘hope is our strategy’ to actually having one. Now my diary’s full of right-fit meetings and I sleep like a cat in a sunbeam.”

Humour makes your brand memorable. Just keep it authentic and on-tone.

Common Myths (Gently Debunked)

• “We’ll ask later.” Translation: never. Ask when the win is fresh.
• “We don’t have results yet.” Capture the experience and early wins. You can add bigger outcomes later.
• “It feels awkward.” Frame it as feedback to help others make a confident choice. Most happy clients say yes.

A Simple 20-Minute Weekly Routine

• Minute 1–3: List two wins you helped create this week.
• Minute 4–8: Send two testimonial requests with the prompts above.
• Minute 9–12: Curate one existing quote for a specific page/post.
• Minute 13–20: Publish one proof point (website, social, proposal).

Consistency beats a once-a-year scramble.

Turning Quotes into Conversions: Micro-Caselets

Upgrade standout testimonials into 150–250 word “caselets” with:

• The client and context
• The problem
• What you did (in plain English)
• The outcome (quantified if possible)
• A succinct client quote

These outperform long, dusty case studies that no one finishes.

A Note on Ethics (and Legal Bits)

Always get permission to publish names, photos, and logos. If a client needs anonymity, use role + sector (“Operations Director, Healthcare”).

Keep a dated record of consent. And never invent or over-polish—trust, once broken, is hard to rebuild.

Final Word: Let Your Clients Brag for You

Testimonials are your always-on sales team—working across your site, proposals, and socials. They carry your credibility further than any “About” page, and they do it in a voice buyers recognise as their own.

Build the flywheel, ask smarter, and let your best work speak for itself.

In short, testimonials are the easiest way to borrow your future customer’s brain and let it talk them into working with you. They shrink risk, boost trust, and do the heavy lifting long after you’ve closed your laptop. Build the flywheel: ask quickly, make it easy, capture specifics, and publish everywhere that matters—website, proposals, socials, event pages. Add a sprinkle of personality (and the odd cat-in-a-sunbeam line if it fits), but keep outcomes front and centre. Do this consistently for a month and you’ll notice warmer enquiries, smoother sales conversations, and fewer “just checking” emails. Do it for a quarter and you’ll wonder how you ever marketed without it. Ready to let your clients brag for you? Set up the form, send two requests today, and give your best work the spotlight it deserves.

The True Value of an Event: It’s Not the Ticket Price — It’s What You Do With the Time Introduction: Stop Pricing the Priceless

People often judge an event by its entry fee. If it’s “expensive,” they expect big results; if it’s “cheap,” they expect less. But the real value of an event isn’t the ticket price — it’s the outcomes you create before, during, and after you show up. In other words, value isn’t purchased; it’s produced. This blog unpacks how to recognise, unlock, and measure that value so every event becomes a strategic growth moment, not just a date in your diary.

Think in Outcomes, Not Admission

A ticket buys you access; your intention and actions create outcomes. Shift your lens from “What did it cost?” to “What did it change?” Ask:

• What new clients, collaborators, or advocates did I meet?
• What ideas did I capture and implement?
• What visibility did I gain with my ideal audience?
• What skills, confidence, or clarity did I strengthen?

When you evaluate outcomes rather than price, you stop underestimating low-cost events and stop overvaluing high-cost ones. You value the match between the event and your goals — and your performance on the day.

The Event Value Stack

Use this layered view to identify where value lives:

1. Learning Value
   • New ideas, frameworks, and case studies
   • Tools, templates, and practical shortcuts
   • Confidence to try something new
2. Connection Value
   • Warm introductions to decision-makers
   • Peer support and accountability
   • Access to communities you can serve
3. Visibility Value
   • Being seen by your niche
   • Speaking, panel, or Q&A moments
   • Social content and PR hooks
4. Commercial Value
   • Qualified leads and booked calls
   • Partnerships, referrals, and collaborations
   • Deals closed and future pipeline
5. Momentum Value
   • Renewed motivation and focus
   • Clarity about next steps
   • Energy to execute faster

Each layer compounds. A single face-to-face conversation can spark content ideas, lead to an introduction, and then become a client. That chain of value rarely shows up on a receipt — but it can transform your quarter.

Before the Event: Prime the Outcomes

Most people walk in cold and hope for serendipity. Top performers prime it.

Set one primary objective and two secondary goals

• Examples: “Book 3 qualified follow-up calls” (primary). “Meet 1 potential partner and 1 media contact” (secondary).
• Research the room
  • Scan the speaker list, attendee tags, or sponsor roster
  • Identify 5–10 people you’d like to meet
  • Prepare a short “why we should connect” openeCraft your “value hook.”
    • One sentence: who you help, the problem you solve, the outcome you deliver
    • One proof point: a result or testimonial

Prepare assets

• • A clear call-to-action (CTA) you can mention in conversation
  • A lead magnet or resource you can share instantly
  • A simple way to book a follow-up (QR code, calendaring link, or card)

Pre-engage

Comment on speakers’ posts

• Message 2–3 target attendees to say you’re looking forward to meeting
• Ask organisers whether you can contribute (questions, roundtables, recap)

During the Event: Be Present, Be Useful, Be Memorable

Events favour the proactive. Focus on contribution first, conversion second.

• Open strong
  • Sit near the front, ask good questions, and share a relevant insight
  • Offer to connect two people with a shared need
• Practise “curated curiosity.”
  • Ask: “What’s your priority this quarter?” “What would make this event a win for you?”
  • Listen for problems you can solve or signpost
• Capture context, not just contacts.
  • Note who introduced you, topic discussed, promised next step
  • Tag your notes by theme (partnership, client, media, supplier)
• Build micro-visibility.
  • Share one thoughtful post per break: a takeaway, a speaker quote, a shout-out
  • Tag the organiser, speakers, and new contacts
• Protect your energy.
  • Schedule short breaks to reflect and prioritise
  • Quality beats quantity — five rich conversations trump fifty shallow ones

After the Event: Turn Momentum into Measurable ROI

Most value is won after the room empties.

Follow up within 48 hours

• Reference the conversation context
• Share the promised resource
• Suggest a specific next step and offer two time options

• Create and distribute content.
  • Write a recap with three takeaways and one action
  • Turn notes into micro-posts for the next two weeks
  • Record a short video summarising what you learned
• Systemise the lead flow.
  • Add contacts to your CRM with tags and next actions
  • Create a “post-event cadence”: Day 2 follow-up, Day 7 resource, Day 21 check-in
• Track outcomes, not effort.
  • Meetings booked, proposals sent, deals closed
  • Partnerships initiated, podcasts booked, speaking invites
  • Website visits and email sign-ups from event content

A Simple Framework: The 3–3–3 Rule

To avoid overwhelm and guarantee progress, set this intention:

• 3 Conversations: Three meaningful chats with your ideal profile
• 3 Commitments: Three agreed next steps with deadlines
• 3 Pieces of Content: Three useful shares (post, video, newsletter paragraph)

If you deliver the 3–3–3, you’ll reliably create value — regardless of event size or price.

Calculating Event ROI (Without Guesswork)

Move past vague impressions with a practical approach:

• Direct ROI (Commercial):
  • Revenue from deals attributed to the event
  • Lifetime value (LTV) of clients acquired
  • Partnership deals with projected value
• Indirect ROI (Brand & Pipeline):
  • Speaking and media opportunities confirmed
  • Referrals initiated and partner intros received
  • Email list growth, website traffic spikes, social engagement
• Cost of Attendance (Total):
  • Ticket price + travel + time cost (your day rate)
  • Prep and follow-up hours
• Time-to-Value:
  • How quickly the first result landed (eg booked call within 48 hours)

When you track both direct and indirect ROI, you’ll start to see why some “low-cost” rooms are gold mines and some “premium” ones underperform — it’s about fit and follow-through.

Common Myths to Drop

• “If it’s pricey, it must be good.” Price signals positioning, not guaranteed outcomes.
• “I’ll see what happens.” Intentionality beats passivity every time.
• “Networking is selling.” The best connectors serve first, then sell.
• “I didn’t meet any clients.” Partners, referrers, and media can be worth more than a single sale.

Make Every Event Count: A 10-Point Checklist

• Clear objective and two secondary goals
• Target attendee list and pre-event messages sent
• Value hook and proof point rehearsed
• CTA, booking link, and resource ready
• Questions prepared for speakers and panels
• Notes captured with context and next steps
• 48-hour follow-up emails scheduled
• Three pieces of content published within a week
• Outcomes logged in CRM and reviewed after 30 days
• Decision: repeat, refine, or replace this event next time

Value Is a Verb

The true value of an event doesn’t reside in the ticket line. It lives in your preparation, participation, and persistence. When you show up with purpose, contribute generously, and follow through decisively, events stop being “expenses” and start becoming multipliers — of ideas, influence, and income.

AND – Remember Business Cards and/or flyers.

10 Hot Networking Tips for Your Business Success

Networking is one of the most powerful tools for building your business. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of experience, connecting with the right people can open doors, spark ideas, and create opportunities you never imagined.

As the Queen of Connections, I’ve spent over 20 years helping businesswomen (and men, too!) grow their networks in meaningful, productive ways. Below are 10 straightforward, practical networking tips to help you stand out, make connections that count, and keep your business moving forward.

1. Always Be Prepared

Preparation is key. Before attending a networking event, think about what you want to achieve. Do you want to meet potential clients, collaborators, or mentors? Knowing your goal helps you stay focused and confident.

Bring business cards (yes, they’re still useful!) or be ready with a quick digital way for people to connect with you. Preparation shows professionalism and saves time for you and others.

2. Perfect Your Introduction

Your introduction is your chance to shine. Practice a short, engaging pitch that explains who you are, who you help, and how you add value. Keep it simple and memorable.

For example: “I help small businesses grow their visibility through strategic networking and connections.”

It’s not about sounding rehearsed — it’s about being clear and confident.

3. Focus on the Other Person

Networking is not about talking endlessly about yourself — it’s about building relationships. Ask questions, listen carefully, and show genuine interest in others.

People remember how you make them feel, so make sure your energy is warm, open, and curious.

4. It’s Not About What You Do — It’s About What You Offer

This one’s close to my heart. Too often, people get stuck describing their job title or tasks. Instead, focus on the benefit you bring.

Instead of saying: “I’m a financial adviser,” try: “I help women feel in control of their money and reduce stress around their finances.”

This small shift changes everything. People immediately understand how you can help them (or someone they know).

5. Follow Up Quickly

Meeting someone is only the first step — the magic happens in the follow-up. Send a short message within 24–48 hours to thank them, remind them where you met, and suggest a next step if it feels right.

For example: “Lovely to meet you at the 1230 TWC lunch. I’d love to hear more about your business — how about a coffee next week?”

Consistency builds trust, and trust builds business.

6. Be Visible and Consistent

Networking doesn’t work if you show up once and then disappear. Regularly attending events helps people recognise you, trust you, and think of you when opportunities arise.

Consistency is how you move from being a stranger to being part of someone’s trusted circle.

7. Share Your Expertise Generously

Don’t keep your knowledge locked away! Share tips, insights, and advice when you can. It shows your credibility and creates goodwill.

At an event, this might mean answering a question or offering a useful contact. Online, it might mean posting a blog (like this one!) or sharing valuable resources on LinkedIn.

The more you give, the more you’ll receive.

8. Mind Your Body Language

Networking isn’t only about what you say — it’s about how you show up. Smile, make eye contact, and keep an open posture. Avoid crossing your arms or looking at your phone.

Positive body language makes you more approachable and creates a stronger first impression.

9. Mix Online and Offline Networking

In today’s world, networking happens both face-to-face and online. Use platforms like LinkedIn, Facebook, and Instagram to stay visible between in-person events.

The trick is to be consistent. If someone meets you at an event, then sees your helpful post online, they’re more likely to remember and connect with you.

10. Enjoy the Process!

Networking should be fun, not stressful. Think of it as building friendships rather than chasing sales. The more relaxed and authentic you are, the more people will want to connect with you.

Approach it with curiosity and an open mind — you never know where one conversation might lead.

Wrapping It Up

Networking is not about quick wins. It’s about building long-term, trusted relationships that bring opportunities, collaboration, and growth. By preparing well, focusing on what you offer, and staying consistent, you’ll create connections that truly count.

So, next time you walk into a room full of strangers (or log on to a virtual event), remember these 10 Hot Networking Tips. Keep it practical, keep it authentic, and most importantly — enjoy the journey.

Because when you connect with the right people, you’re not just building a business — you’re building a community.