Speed Networking

On 20 April 2010,  Birmingham Future hosted the first Speed Networking event of 2010 at Bluu Bar, Islington Gates, Summer Row.  These events are notoriously popular and this event was no exception.  Birmingham Future members across all sectors attended the event and participated in two exhilarating rounds of speed networking. The participants had just three minutes to make their introductions before the bell rang and it was time to move on!

Many of the attendees commented on the surprising number of new members that they had met during the evening and others said that the night had been an incredibly useful way to develop their networking skills and build on their existing network of contacts. It was an evening thoroughly enjoyed by all and judging by the positive feedback, we look forward to the next one.

Speed Networking – 3rd Sept

Thursday 3^rd September saw approximately 40 members descend on Bluu bar on Summer Row for one of Birmingham Future’s regular events – Speed Networking. For those of you who are unfamiliar with the format of this informal yet structured event, it involves moving from table to table and engaging in three minutes of networking with other young professionals in a fun, friendly and relaxed environment. The evening’s speed networking formalities were followed by and preceded general chit chat over drinks and buffet style food provided by Bluu, who did an excellent job at hosting the event.

The event is often attended by those who are relatively new to Birmingham or Birmingham Future and provides an excellent way to meet other young professionals from all sectors. Michael Pass of Robert Walters said: “The speed networking event was the first of its kind that I have attended. I was really impressed by the effectiveness of this form of networking. I think it’s a fantastic way to get to know other members and I’d recommend it to anyone who is new to Birmingham Future. The event is a real social affair and many stayed on at the end of the event to continue conversations with people they’d met earlier.”

Coming Up

October is a busy month for Birmingham Future, with plenty for all interests to get involved with.  Below is a short list of some of the events that the blog hopes to cover, and that should you want to, you can attend.

• Meet & Mix Lunch – 1st October –  Peter Rees-Steer, talks about how young leaders can, and are making a difference in the city.  The meet & mix lunches are one of the most popular events run by Future, and with the Birmingham Young Inspiring Leader speaking, its sure to be a sell out.
• New Graduates Welcome Event – 8th October – A chance for this year’s new graduates across the city and from all areas of the professional services sector, to meet, network and be welcomed into the city. 
• Speed Networking – 9th October – Its like speed dating for your business.  3 minutes, some drinks, some canapes.  Held at Bluu on Summer Row.
• Birmingham Half Marathon – 26th October – Birmingham Future’s team are deep into training for the city’s first half marathon, all in aid of the Birmingham Foundation.  If you don’t want to run, then come along and support.  You can donate to the Future Team here.

As you can see, its another month of fantastic networking opportunities with Birmingham Future.  If you want to know more about becoming a member, or you want to attend one of the events, then you can contact the office by calling 0121 632 2200 or by email:  info@birminghamforward.co.uk.