Hi, I’m Daryl Vickers of networx4business – and I’ve built and grown businesses for over 30 years (yes, I know – I don’t look old enough!).
Over the coming months, I’m pulling back the curtain on the networking secrets that transformed my success. I’ll share simple, actionable tips to master every part of the game: nailing your pitch, finding your perfect environment, and starting conversations that actually lead somewhere.
Incredible People
Networking isn’t just a nice-to-have – it’s been the backbone of my journey. I’ve run my own networking business across North Wales, Wirral and Cheshire for 13 years, meeting thousands of incredible people and learning more than any textbook could teach me.
Walking into a room full of strangers? Terrifying for anyone, but here’s the truth: it’s also the fastest way to open doors, find inspiration, and build the support system your business needs. Whether you’re scaling up or just looking for like-minded people, networking is where it all begins.
Let’s start with the basics: Find your perfect event. Wrexham and the surrounding area host dozens of networking events every month – regular or one-off, free or membership-based, formal or laid-back.
My first rule: Choose an event you’ll excitedly attend, not one you’ll dread. If it feels like a chore, you’ll never fully engage – and engagement is everything when it comes to building real relationships.
Be Unapologetically You
Budget matters are especially sensitive, especially for new startups. However, most events let you visit for free to test the waters. My advice – don’t let cost stop you if it feels like a good fit. If it will generate work and you enjoy being there, it’s an investment, not an expense.
Tip two: Be unapologetically you. Don’t let established businesses intimidate you. Your services are just as valuable as theirs.
People buy from people – real people. Yes, you’ll feel nervous walking in, but start chatting to someone, and that anxiety will melt away. If no one greets you, walk up to a group and say: “Hi, it’s my first time here – mind if I join?” Being honest about your nerves is the fastest way to feel at ease.
That’s it for now – but I’ll be back in February with more game-changing tips.
Got questions about networking or business? Drop me a line anytime.
Wishing you a wonderful start to the New Year – see you next month!
Daryl – daryl@nerworx4business.co.uk.
Images by Gavin Priest.
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Author: Daryl Vickers
Daryl is the owner of networx4business, a networking group that runs four meetings on the Wirral (Silk Road, Start-Yard, Arthurs of Hoylake and Mere Brook Hotel), five in Cheshire (The Woodcote Hotel, Little Owl, The Cheshire Cat, The Farmers Arms and Old Hall Farm Pub) and four in North Wales (Maesgwyn Hall, Caffi Dai, Rossett Hall Hotel and Alexander’s in Mold). All the meetings have a structure and a purpose, and many members say coming to a networking group has got them out of their comfort zone and has increased their confidence when talking about their business. Networx was established as Daryl was getting frustrated with the cost of other networking groups, as well as their formality and frequency. He believes that networking works best when members are relaxed and not under pressure to bring referrals, or targeted on them. In this way, any business or referral passed over is more genuine and better qualified.
