Some people flinch at the very idea of business networking and now a new venture aims to coax along ‘nervous networkers’ to its more ‘gentle’ event in Liverpool. Tony McDonough reports

“Nobody teaches you how to network”, says Gill Torres founder of a new venture that aims to remove the fear from business networking.

Even the most accomplished entrepreneurs and professionals can shudder at the thought of walking into a room full of strangers. Networking is so often seen as that thing we all must do but in reality loathe.

Now Gill, founder of networking brands Construction Pool, Down South Liverpool and The Wirral Way, is looking to coax these “nervous networkers” along to an event in Liverpool.

Called The Networkshop, it will take place at The Anchor in Coburg Wharf at Liverpool Marina on Wednesday, February 11, between 10am and 12 noon.Guests will be supported to meet new contacts, with gentle introductions and conversation prompts.

Along the way, they’ll pick up skills and techniques to make networking less daunting. Gill said: “Loads of business owners know they need to build their network but feel intimidated or uncomfortable at the events.

“People tell me they worry about what to say, what to bring, how to approach people. The list goes on. Nobody teaches you how to network, so everyone’s winging it.

“Most end up standing in a corner with friends, or preparing too much and coming across overly salesy. My intention is to show people how to stay comfortable and authentic at business events.”

READ MORE: Kays Medical reveals a return to profit

READ MORE: Liverpool city region maritime sector now worth £9bn

As well as hosting networking events for 20 years, Gill has facilitated wellbeing workshops since 2016. The Networkshop brings together both sides of her professional experience.

Guidance at the event supports people to get clear about what they want from networking, then stay calm and confident in a potentially intimidating situation.

She added: “They don’t need to bring anything, worry about making small talk, or try to work their way into a clique. I facilitate the whole thing.

“They get topics to consider, conversation prompts, even a separate space so they can take themselves if it gets a bit much.

“I’ve analysed what makes me, and others, good in social situations. That’s what I’m sharing here; how to stay present, be yourself, and connect in a way that only comes naturally to some people, some of the time.

“In that respect, what you learn here will support you in every other social situation.”

Tickets for the launch of The Networkshop are available now, by clicking here.