Business collaboration and networking is strong in the Sutherland Shire. These events are a great opportunity to connect and build with your local business commuinity. Council works closely with these groups and supports key activities through investing in marketing and programs. Below are some major business networking groups in the Sutherland Shire.
Why Network?
As the saying goes, it's not what you know, but who you get to know!! Networking is such an important part of growing your business, and it's so often misunderstood. It's not always about selling on the spot, but instead building long-term relationships so that people think of you when they next have the need for your products. Remember, people buy from people they like - relationships are key!
7 Networking Tips
- Set yourself some goals - e.g. hand out 10 business cards
- Plan some ice-breakers ahead of time
- Set yourself a time limit for each interaction & practice your exit strategies
- Ask for an introduction from others
- Practice empathetic listening & share personal stories
- Don't try to sell - just relax and get to know people!
- Rehearse your pitch before the event
Sutherland Shire Business Chamber
The Sutherland Shire Business Chamber (SSBC) is a dynamic and constantly expanding business group backed by the capacity and reach of the long established NSW Business Chamber. Business owners can tap into our network through our social and educational events, listings on our Business Directory, newsletters, social media and digital channels. Membership of the SSBC comes with Affiliate Membership to the NSW Business Chamber that features free calls to the Employment Advice Line, marketing, legal services and discounted attendance at business networking events across Sydney.
The SSBC is for the whole Sutherland Shire and for every business sector from professional services to legal, trades, hospitality and more. We have formal representation and work with Council, industry groups and Government to advocate for the local area, ensuring that economic development and jobs growth continues into the future.
To join and for sponsorship opportunities see our website: www.sutherlandshirebusiness.com.au or phone 0414 734 490.
Local Chambers of Commerce working together with the SSBC:
Membership of any local business chamber within the Sutherland Shire area provides automatic membership of the SSBC.
Realise Business
Realise Business are in our 30th year of operation in the Sutherland Shire. We provide business advice, education and support to small and medium businesses across the Sydney region. Realise Business also offer membership giving you access to our growing network of Sydney businesses, regular events and workshops for people in every stage of business. You can find out more about our team of experts here.
Realise Business can help your business through:
- A FREE 4 hour session with an advisor through the Business Connect Program.
- Ongoing practical support which includes highly subsided business advice from an accredited advisor who will come to you.
- Access to events and networking opportunities designed to improve your business.
Find out more or contact Realise Business on 9545 5900.
ShireBiz
ShireBiz is your business driven economic development group comprising current and past CEOs and public sector leaders, providing their skills and experience to the Committee. The main benefit of economic development will be jobs in the Sutherland Shire and Southern Sydney. We also provide a portal for business to each level of Government. We are business led, with Government support.
ShireBiz has recently enjoyed its sixth birthday, having formed as a result of a public meeting held in October 2012. Our Board of current & retired business professionals & retired political figures, meets monthly with sub committees & Executive meetings held more frequently.
Shirebiz Quarterly is a free event to allow Shirebiz members and supporters to mix and hear from a speaker in a field of interest to local businesses.
Contact details: phone: 0419 617 510 or email: rwalker@shirebiz.net.au
Other local business networks in the Sutherland Shire
Location
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More information
Enquiries
Enquiries can be directed to Business & Tourism on 9710 0892 or economicdevelopment@ssc.nsw.gov.au