Networking Beyond Formal Events

Building Trust Through Repeated Connection

My first experience of business networking came through Wired Cumbria, a creative networking event held in Kendal. It brought together filmmakers, photographers, artists, writers, voice actors, app developers and web designers. I arrived early, which probably amplified how out of place I felt. The venue was a newly renovated, creative building, still unfinished and without proper lighting. I was very much a duck out of water.

What changed that experience was a woman named Theresa, who made a point of welcoming me and gradually introducing me to others as more people arrived. Conversations developed naturally over the afternoon, until it became dark enough that the event had to end. That day, I gained my first voice client, but more importantly, I formed relationships that lasted well beyond the event. Theresa and I are still friends, as are several others I met there.

I went on to attend many more Wired Cumbria events in different locations, organised by Les. Some took the form of informal curry nights, where networking happened over food rather than business cards. These events reinforced the idea that shared experiences often create stronger connections than formal introductions.

Voiceover-specific events played a similar role. Some were full weekend events, allowing conversations to develop more naturally over time. I’ve also attended two major awards events, including the One Voice Conference and Awards and the VOX Awards. While these events were celebratory, the most valuable outcomes again came from the conversations around them, not the ceremonies themselves.

This aligns closely with Will Kintish’s view that “networking is not about selling you or your company. Networking is about spotting possible opportunities – do they have a problem you can help with, or would working together on something help both of you?” (Kintish, 2014) My own experience reflects this shift from promotion to collaboration.

More recently, in 2025, I joined a local weekly networking group. The regularity has been especially valuable. Seeing the same people consistently removes pressure and allows trust to build organically.

Reflection

Looking back, my understanding of networking has shifted from something transactional to something relational. Early on, I focused on immediate outcomes. Over time, I’ve learned that the most meaningful opportunities emerge through repeated interaction, consistency, and trust. Networking has become less about selling myself and more about being present, reliable, and genuinely interested in others. This approach feels more authentic and far more sustainable within a freelance, portfolio-based career.

References

• Kintish, W. (2014). Business Networking: The Survival Guide. Pearson UK.

Fig. 1. Representation of my first local business networking Wired Cumbria

Fig. 2. Me winning a One Voice Award in London 2021

Fig. 3. A group win at the VOX Awards in London 2021

Fig.4. Reflective Rebels co-working and networking Carlisle

Fig.5. Wanadoo Networking social event.