Building a strong network is one of the most effective ways to grow a business. Whether you're a start-up founder, freelancer, consultant, or established SME, the relationships you develop can lead to new clients, partnerships, referrals, and valuable business insights. A season networker Brenda Ettershank , Co-founder of Northwood House 1880 shares her tips on Business Networking in Dundee
1. Attend Networking Events Regularly
Success in networking comes from consistency. Attending a single event may help you make a few connections, but regularly showing up allows people to get to know, like, and trust you. Look for local business groups, industry forums, chamber events, and informal networking opportunities throughout Dundee and Tayside. Nearby Fife also has a number of great events in Kirkcaldy and Dunfermline
At Northwood we will be hosting some events soon so watch this space
A could starter for 10
Dundee and Angus Chamber (membership required)
Federation of Small Business (events often free)
Business Gateway Dundee
Women Ahead
Local flexible workspace or coworking spaces like Northwood
2. Focus on Building Relationships, Not Selling
One of the biggest mistakes entrepreneurs make is trying to sell immediately. Effective networking is about creating genuine connections. Ask questions, listen carefully, and seek to understand other people's challenges and goals before discussing your own services.
3. Perfect Your Introduction
Be prepared to explain:
Who you are
What your business does
Who you help
What makes your service unique
Keep it concise and conversational. The goal is to spark interest, not deliver a sales presentation.
4. Use LinkedIn to Strengthen Connections
After meeting someone, connect with them on LinkedIn while the conversation is still fresh. Include a personalised message referencing where you met and what you discussed. This simple step helps turn a brief introduction into a lasting professional relationship.
5. Give Before You Ask
The strongest networks are built on mutual support. Consider introducing contacts to one another, sharing useful resources, or promoting another business where appropriate. People are far more likely to remember and recommend those who have helped them.
6. Prepare Questions in Advance
Good networking is driven by curiosity. Consider asking:
What projects are you currently working on?
What challenges is your business facing?
How did you get started in your industry?
What opportunities are you seeing in the market?
Meaningful conversations often generate more value than exchanging dozens of business cards.
7. Follow Up Promptly
Within a few days of meeting someone, send a brief follow-up message. Thank them for their time, reference your conversation, and suggest a coffee meeting or future discussion if appropriate.
Many networking opportunities are lost simply because no follow-up takes place.
8. Make the Most of Flexible Workspaces
Flexible workspaces also known as business centres can provide more than just office accommodation. They often create opportunities to meet entrepreneurs, remote workers, consultants, and growing businesses under one roof.
Just starting out? At Northwood we offer a range of cost effective solutions for freelancers and startups like day passess and coworking options
A simple conversation in a shared kitchen, breakout area, or networking event can often lead to new business relationships or collaborations.
9. Be Visible Within the Local Business Community
Consider:
Speaking at local events
Hosting workshops
Sharing business insights on LinkedIn
Supporting local charities and initiatives
Joining collaborative projects with other businesses
The more visible your expertise becomes, the more opportunities will naturally come your way.
10. Think Long-Term
Not every networking connection will become a client immediately. Some of the most valuable business opportunities arise months or even years after the initial introduction.
Focus on building a reputation for being professional, knowledgeable, and helpful, and your network will become one of your most valuable business assets.
Final Thoughts
Dundee continues to develop as a hub for innovation, technology, professional services, and entrepreneurship. For local business owners, networking remains one of the most cost-effective ways to build visibility, generate referrals, and discover new opportunities. By investing time in genuine relationships and engaging with the local business community, entrepreneurs can create a strong foundation for sustainable growth.
Business Networking Dundee