How to Make the Most of a Netwalking Event

by Walking Business Coach and Author of Transform Your Life by Walking Jackie Jarvis 

Netwalking, which involves networking while walking, is a great way to combine exercise and business networking. 

Here are my top 6 tips on how to make the most of any Netwalk you attend:

1. Dress appropriately: Make sure you wear comfortable walking shoes or trainers and clothes appropriate for walking and the weather. Bring a small ruck sack or bag containing some water, a snack and a waterproof jacket, just in case! You don't want to be uncomfortable or distracted by your attire while walking and networking.

2. Focus on Networking and Building Relationships: Whilst it's important to enjoy the walk and relax, don't forget the main purpose of the event is to network. Be sure to make the most of your walk and talks with the participants and ask questions about their business and interests. On Natural Netwalks you get up to 6 opportunities for one to ones with fellow Netwalkers. 

3. Practice Active Listening: Walking and talking side by side is different to zoom or any face to face interaction. In many ways it can be easier to engage. Make sure you show your partner you are listening, by giving them space to speak, asking questions and showing that you are engaged in the conversation. Make Netwalking a 2-way dialogue where walk and talk partners have equal airtime. 

4. Bring Business Cards: You will meet a number of people on your Netwalk, and afterwards over coffee. If anything comes up in your conversation whilst walking swopping business cards and making a quick note of what you talked about can help later with your follow up. 

5. Follow up and Connect on LinkedIn: After the Netwalk, make sure to follow up with the people you met. Send a quick email or LinkedIn message to thank them for their time and express interest in staying in touch. Sharing a Netwalking experience can make relationships stronger much more quickly, so your follow up will be appreciated. 

6. Enjoy the Experience: Netwalking events are meant to be fun and beneficial for your physical and mental wellbeing as well as your business. Don't forget to enjoy the experience of being outside, meeting new people, and getting some exercise. 

Next Step – Come Netwalking 

Join Natural Netwalking at Blenheim Palace, in Woodstock, Oxfordshire, Waddesdon Manor near Aylesbury and The Thames Path in Goring and Streatley. Book your place www.naturalnetwalking.co.uk/events 

Jackie Jarvis Walking Business Coach www.walkingbusinesscoach.com