🤝 How to Make The Most of This Community

One of the biggest benefits of being part of BathConnect is the chance to connect with other independent business owners and professionals in the city. But great networking isn’t about pitching — it’s about building relationships that create value for everyone.

Here’s how to network meaningfully in the community, whether you're new or already well connected.

👋 Start by Introducing Yourself

Once you're in the WhatsApp General Chat, say a quick hello. A simple intro goes a long way:

  • Who you are

  • What your business does

  • What you're hoping to connect or collaborate on

“Hi, I’m Sam from Nest & Nook — we’re a small homeware brand based near Kingsmead. Looking forward to connecting with other makers and finding some great local collaborators!”

💡 Be Curious, Not Just Visible

Networking isn’t about broadcasting — it’s about listening, engaging, and being curious.

Try:

  • Responding to questions others ask

  • Asking thoughtful questions of your own

  • Exploring the Member Directory or Community Resources to spot potential synergies

✨ Share What You’re Working On (Without the Hard Sell)

People are genuinely interested in what others are building — so don’t be afraid to talk about your latest launch, project, or challenge. Just keep it conversational, not promotional.

✅ “We’ve just finished our new packaging — happy to share supplier tips if anyone else is going through the same process!”

❌ “Here’s a 10% off code for our new product — buy now!”

🔁 Offer First, Ask Later

Great community relationships are built on generosity. Before asking for help, consider what you can offer:

  • A useful contact

  • A helpful tool or trick

  • A bit of encouragement or perspective

It builds trust — and trust builds opportunity.

🗓 Use the Groups to Create Serendipity

Feel free to suggest casual meetups, coffee catch-ups, or collaborations. You never know what might spark from a simple message like:

“Anyone else in retail fancy grabbing a coffee next week to chat pop-ups and customer experience?”

We love to see members self-organising.

🧠 Think Long-Term, Not Quick Wins

Networking is most powerful when you approach it with a long-term mindset. Don’t worry about immediate outcomes — instead, focus on building a web of trusted connections you can learn from, grow with, and refer to over time.

🙌 You Belong Here

Whether you're just starting out or running a well-established business, you have something valuable to offer.

So jump in, introduce yourself, share generously — and watch what unfolds. The BathConnect community is what we all make it.