Great networking isn’t about how many business cards you collect. It’s about the connections you make and the people you help along the way.
At MBH, we bring together business owners and professionals from across Manchester who are willing to share ideas, make introductions and support one another.
And we think those contributions deserve to be recognised.
That’s why we’re introducing the MBH Networker of the Month award, a new initiative celebrating the people who make a positive difference to our business community.
It’s about recognising those who go beyond simply attending networking events and help make MBH a welcoming, supportive place for businesses to connect and grow.
What is the MBH Networker of the Month award?
The MBH Networker of the Month award recognises individuals who demonstrate what great business networking is really about.
We’re not talking about who hands out the most business cards, delivers the best sales pitch or makes the most noise in the room.
We’re talking about the people who take a genuine interest in others.
The ones who welcome someone attending for the first time, introduce two businesses that could benefit from knowing each other or share their experience to help someone overcome a challenge.
Sometimes, it’s the smallest gestures that make the biggest difference.
Our award is a way of celebrating those contributions and recognising the people who help strengthen Manchester’s business community.
What makes a great networker?
Everyone approaches networking differently. Some people are naturally outgoing, while others prefer quieter, one-to-one conversations.
But being a great networker isn’t necessarily about confidence or personality.
We believe it comes down to a few simple things.
Building genuine relationships
Good networking starts with getting to know people.
Taking an interest in someone’s business, remembering previous conversations and following up afterwards can turn a brief introduction into a lasting professional relationship.
Making introductions
Sometimes, the most valuable thing you can do at a networking event is introduce two people who could benefit from knowing each other.
It might lead to a collaboration, a new supplier relationship or simply a useful conversation.
Sharing knowledge and experience
Running a business comes with challenges, and nobody has all the answers.
Being willing to share advice, experiences and ideas can make a real difference to someone who is facing a problem you’ve already encountered.
Making others feel welcome
Walking into a room full of unfamiliar faces can feel daunting, particularly if you’re new to networking.
A friendly welcome, an introduction or an invitation to join a conversation can help someone feel part of the community from the moment they arrive.
These are the qualities we want to recognise through MBH Networker of the Month.
How do we choose our Networker of the Month?
Our Networker of the Month is selected by the MBH team, based on the positive contributions and interactions we observe at our networking events, alongside recommendations from fellow attendees.
We look for people who genuinely engage with others, make helpful introductions, share knowledge and contribute to making our events welcoming and supportive.
It’s not about who makes the most sales or speaks to the most people.
It’s about recognising those who make a real difference to the MBH business community.
If you’ve met someone at an MBH event who deserves recognition for the way they support others, we’d love to hear about them. Simply speak to a member of the MBH team.
Why we’re introducing Networker of the Month
Business networking is often talked about in terms of leads, referrals and new opportunities.
And while those things are important, they’re only part of the picture.
