December 21 2009 saw the launch of the East Midlands Networking Forum. This is a group of high-level networkers who will help shape the networking landscape of the East Midlands.

In this initial meeting, 20 influential connectors, leaders, movers and shakers gathered together to set out an agenda of collaboration, strategy for growth and awareness of the many networking opportunities and styles in the region.

The group is founded and chaired by networking and referrals expert Rob Brown and is purely invitation-only. Those invited must be in East Midlands based and have both established, high level networks and a positive attitude to personal development.

In addition, those accepted to join must be in either sitting in a leadership position of a networking group, club or organisation, be running regular business events or have a responsibility for bringing people together to network, generate business opportunities and develop themselves.

Simon Bozeat, who runs four Bozeat Premier Business Clubs, said:

"This is a very exciting opportunity for any business club and network leaders in the region."

One of the remits of the group will be to collectively target the 97% of the East Midlands business community who do not network on a regular basis. Says Tim Sayers, who runs the Nottingham Rugby 1877 Networking Club:

"Whilst all the groups will have their own specific objectives/targets I think if we as a collective cohort can penetrate the 97% effectively we will grow all our businesses and start a 'ripple' effect that could have quite staggering and lasting consequence."

Trevor Wood, founder of Network Midlands, added:

"Two of the main keys to the Group's success are internal and one external. Internally is transparency. We're all working together, learning from each other. Externally is penetrating the 97%."

The 97% of untouchables need a compelling reason to engage. That reason will be different depending on the individual. Thus a blended approach of engagement at various levels from various stakeholders is required. This needs thinking through and executed 'en masse'. Which is where our EMNF comes in.

Martin Rutte once said:

"You have to do by yourself,
And you can't do it alone."

A joined up approach will help us reach the unreachable over the next 12-24 months. We'll make it a significant part of our agenda.

All members are experienced networkers in their own right, and have incredible expertise in connecting people, running events and making things happen.

Another 40-50 potential members have expressed an interest in being part of the Forum, and will be invited to a further meeting on Jan 11 2010 to explore what this might mean for them, their groups and organisations and of course the East Midlands Networking scene.

After the first meeting, Rob Brown commented:

"I was really impressed by people's willingness to share, be open and acknowledge that there is strength in numbers. I'm excited by what we're creating and looking forward to an incredible 2010"

If you would like to be involved with shaping the networking landscape in the East Midlands region and feel you fulfil the criteria for membership, contact Rob Brown on 0115 846 2127 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .