6 simple networking tips for freelance mums in Swansea
In honour of the launch of our new Swansea Hub in South Wales, we thought we’d share our networking tips for mums for anyone out there who is new to networking (or just thinking about giving it a try).
- Just do it!
One of the hardest things if you’re new to freelancing can be to take the plunge and start networking. But few people in business wouldn’t agree that networking is pivotal in getting the support you need to build a successful business.
In fact, a survey by UKNetworker [CH1] found that approximately 70% of small businesses reported that networking played a crucial role in securing new clients in 2023. Freelance Mum is inclusive, relaxed, and a safe space to be your whole self. And it’s not scary. Why not go for it, and give us a try?
- Ask questions and be a good listener
Successful networking is about building relationships. Our networking events are designed to get members talking; we often provide ice-breaker activities or thought-provoking questions.
But we also encourage you to go off-piste with your conversations! Feel free to ask questions and let conversations unfold authentically. The strongest relationships form when people feel relaxed, listened to, and appreciated. Plus, you can learn an awful lot from a chat with a fellow Freelance Mum!
- Be your whole self
We hear a lot about being your ‘best self’, but at Freelance Mum, we know that we can’t be that every day. Even the most successful mums in business may come along to FM networking events having had a sleepless night or a less-than-successful school run.
At Freelance Mum, you can be your whole self—bring your jumps and your grumps, your business strategy and your kids. You’ll meet women who get it but will help you get through and build your business from strength to strength.
We don’t do formal pitches or 1-minute speeches at Freelance Mum, but we very much want to know who you are and what you do. If you’re at the start of your business journey or in the process of changing tack, FM networking events are the perfect place to try out and practise your ‘elevator pitch’ (for want of a better phrase!)
Being your authentic self allows you to connect with others on a personal level, and it’s those kinds of connections that turn into meaningful, lasting relationships.
- Make the most of your membership
With a Freelance Mum membership, you get a lot for your money. You can go to any of our netwalks with local hubs across the Southwest and in South Wales, join the Digital Hub online one Tuesday a month, drop in to our weekly online Coffee Mornings, and access The Mothership, our buzzing Facebook community.
The Freelance Mum community is rich in knowledge, experience, and connections, and always willing to offer support—lean on your network. If you need advice or a listening ear, get in touch with a fellow FM.
- Follow up
As we always say at Freelance Mum, you get back what you put in. So, if you click with someone on a netwalk or at an online coffee morning, follow up with a message, put it out there on your socials, or arrange a 1:1. And remember, successful networking takes time, so keep coming! Visit your local hub once a month and try and get to some of our other hubs whenever you can. Check out the FM Calendar to see what’s on.
Freelance Mum is about more than finding new business. It’s a safe space for women to give and receive support, offload, feel a sense of belonging, and raise each other up.
Find out more about Freelance Mum business networking groups for women in South Wales and across the Southwest of England.
