The concept of netwalking was originally developed in America, where it is used to break up a heavy seminar schedule or to move delegates from one venue to another at an exhibition for example. Many American netwalking clubs meet before beakfast for a brisk walk but we prefer to meet for a leisurely evening walk.
The Organisers:
Kate Elliott andClaire McDermid
(Active MD)
Email: kate@norfolk-netwalking.co.uk
Email: claire@norfolk-netwalking.co.uk
Bio: We got involved with Norfolk Netwalking because we were keen to share experiences of starting and running a business with like-minded people, in a less formal setting than the usual business networks. As new business owners, we also had a personal appreciation of the difficulties of trying to maintain a healthy work-life balance so the exercise aspect was important too.
Kate manages the Norfolk Netwalking database of contacts and is responsible for public relations, continually trying to raise the profile of Norfolk Netwalking through the media. Claire designed the Norfolk Netwalking logo and produces all the flyers and posters advertising forthcoming events.
Dan Harris(Another Way)
Email: dan@norfolk-netwalking.co.uk
Bio: I was happy to join the Norfolk Netwalking team, I think it's a fun way of networking, a very nice, informal and relaxed atmosphere. It's all about having fun, making new connections and getting a bit of exercise at the same time!
I'm the technical side of the group, responsible for everything to do with the website, from design and programming to the hosting. I like to think of myself as a techie who speaks English, not technical jargon; give me a problem and I'll find you the right solution.
Stephen Ferrey(Motivational Coaching)
Email: stephen@norfolk-netwalking.co.uk
Bio: I believe in taking action! There are SO many great ideas
out there that never get off the ground solely because of self-doubt or
lethargy. It is through activity that things happen. It is this 'call to
action' that inspired me to set up both Motivational Coaching and Norfolk
Netwalking.
I once attended a seminar entitled "Love it or hate it - Networking, you HAVE to
do it!". This didn't ring true with me - I say "If something is to be done,
find a way to enjoy it"; and so Norfolk Netwalking was born. Why not develop
your business AND HAVE FUN at the same time? See you on the walks!
Chris & Sara Greenfield(The Best of Norwich)
Email: chris@norfolk-netwalking.co.uk
Email: sara@norfolk-netwalking.co.uk
Bio: Chris and Sara Greenfield helped to set up Norfolk Netwalking after Sara met Stephen Ferrey of Motivational Coaching at a networking event in Norwich. Stephen mentioned the idea of netwalking and Sara thought it was such a great idea that she wanted to be involved right from the start.
Chris and Sara own the Best of Norwich (thebestof.co.uk/Norwich). Champions the best businesses in Norwich, with web and offline marketing - every single business featured with us has been recommended by local people, ensuring that only the best are featured.
"We have grown our own business mainly through networking" says Sara "and realised what a powerful tool it can be for any local business". We liked the idea of a more informal style of networking that can be fun as well as profitable.
We meet a lot of different businesses and love putting them in touch with each other if we see synergy between them. The idea of Netwalking fits in well with this ethos and gives us a relaxed forum to introduce businesses to each other.