# Opendoorz > Business Networking Oxfordshire ## Pages - [Charity Partners](https://opendoorz.biz/charity-partners/): Charity Partners We’re proud to work with the following local charities. Click on each one to learn more and discover... - [Cookie Policy (UK)](https://opendoorz.biz/cookie-policy-uk/) - [Our Groups](https://opendoorz.biz/our-groups/): Our Groups View on Map - [The Team](https://opendoorz.biz/team/): Meet the Opendoorz Team. When it comes to successful networking, there’s not much this lot don’t know! Cathy Dunbabin Founder... - [What Counts](https://opendoorz.biz/what-counts/): What matters to us and to our members. Opendoorz is more than networking, it’s a community built on shared values.... - [Terms](https://opendoorz.biz/terms/): Terms & Conditions These terms and conditions govern your use of our website. Our terms have been provided and approved... - [Why Opendoorz Networking Group](https://opendoorz.biz/the-opendoorz-difference/): The Opendoorz Difference Building your network together. Fun, aspirational and rewarding professional business networking across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire What... - [Testimonials](https://opendoorz.biz/testimonials/): Testimonials What Members say about Opendoorz... Welcome to the Testimonials page for Opendoorz, where our members share their experiences and... - [Privacy Policy](https://opendoorz.biz/privacy-policy/): Privacy Policy Background Whilst we’re not ones for long spiels of information we understand that your privacy is important to... - [Home](https://opendoorz.biz/): Networking done differently. The professional business network for business leaders in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire. Our Groups Get in touch... - [About](https://opendoorz.biz/about/): Doing networking differently for over a decade. We are the networking experts for Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire Opendoorz has always... - [Members](https://opendoorz.biz/members-list/): Opendoorz Members Opendoorz Members are trusted professionals and experts in their fields. You can have the utmost confidence in referring... - [Networking Events Oxfordshire](https://opendoorz.biz/networking-events-oxfordshire/): Our Events Growing your professional network. Helping you build those key connections that your business needs The clue is in... - [Contact](https://opendoorz.biz/contact/): Contact Opendoorz Get in touch with us. The best way to find out more about us and our members is... ## Posts - [Helen & Douglas House](https://opendoorz.biz/helen-douglas-house/): Helping terminally ill children live life to the full. - [Oxfordshire Community Foundation](https://opendoorz.biz/oxfordshire-community-foundation/): We improve lives and tackle inequality by investing in Oxfordshire’s dynamic charitable sector. - [The Berin Centre](https://opendoorz.biz/the-berin-centre/): The Berin Centre in Berinsfield is a community hub that supports people of all ages to thrive. - [Response](https://opendoorz.biz/response/): Response is a mental health and housing charity supporting people with mental health needs and multiple disadvantages across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire,... - [Sobell House](https://opendoorz.biz/sobell-house/): We provide compassionate care to people in Oxfordshire facing life-limiting illness, and support to their family and friends. - [Children Heard And Seen](https://opendoorz.biz/children-heard-and-seen/): Children Heard And Seen is a charity that is dedicated to helping children, young people, and families affected by parental... - [James Hopkins Trust](https://opendoorz.biz/james-hopkins-trust/): Providing Nursing Respite Care for Gloucestershire’s Life-Limited and Life-Threatened Young Children - [Katharine House Hospice](https://opendoorz.biz/katharine-house-hospice/): When someone is diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, it can be extremely distressing for the person affected, as well as... - [The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA)](https://opendoorz.biz/the-national-foundation-for-retired-service-animals-nfrsa/): The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) is a registered charity (1200949) supporting retired dogs and horses from the... - [Oxfordshire Youth](https://opendoorz.biz/oxfordshire-youth/): Youth Work Changes Lives We exist to ensure that every young person -no matter their background - have the skills,... - [Banbury](https://opendoorz.biz/banbury/): Meetings held at the interesting and characterful Wroxton House Hotel - [Generosity in Action: Richard Lannen, Nozzle Media](https://opendoorz.biz/generosity-in-action-richard-lannen-nozzle-media/): Every now and then, someone shows up in a way that quietly reminds you what Opendoorz is really about. Richard... - [This month marks 15 years since our first ever guest event in Oxford and it’s a moment I’m genuinely proud to shout about](https://opendoorz.biz/15-years-since-our-first-ever-guest-event-in-oxford/): What started as a simple idea has grown into a strong, established business community built on trust, shared experience and... - [Networking Isn’t a Numbers Game—It’s a Trust Economy](https://opendoorz.biz/networking-isnt-a-numbers-game-its-a-trust-economy/): Honestly, I’ve never believed in networking as a quick-win numbers game. The old model—collecting business cards, chasing referrals, ticking boxes—feels... - [Time to pause, reflect and remember we all deserve to celebrate. (Give yourself a pat on the back)](https://opendoorz.biz/time-to-pause-reflect-and-remember-we-all-deserve-to-celebrate/): Like so many business owners, I often forget to give myself a pat on the back... in fact I’m prone... - [A Night to Remember: Reflections on the Opendoorz Gloucestershire Launch](https://opendoorz.biz/reflections-on-the-opendoorz-gloucestershire-launch/): The launch of Opendoorz Gloucestershire at the Kings Head Hotel in Cirencester brought together more than 70 business owners and... - [Confidence Through Collaboration](https://opendoorz.biz/confidence-through-collaboration/): How Opendoorz relationships delivered a £1 million contract and created new business opportunities At #Opendoorz, collaboration isn’t just a value... - [Opendoorz Ushers in a ‘New Reign’ of Networking at the Kings Head Hotel in Cirencester](https://opendoorz.biz/opendoorz-gloucestershire-launch/): On Thursday 2nd October, business networking organisation Opendoorz will officially launch its new Gloucestershire Region at the newly refurbished Kings... - [Cirencester](https://opendoorz.biz/cirencester/): Meetings held and the recently refurbished Kings Head Hotel. - [Where community meets action](https://opendoorz.biz/where-community-meets-action/): Our local groups are putting community spirit into action with a fantastic line-up of charity events this season all in... - [Mimosa Design Wins Gold at BBC Gardeners’ World Live](https://opendoorz.biz/mimosa-design-wins-gold-at-bbc-gardeners/): We are delighted to share some fantastic news from the gardening world. Mimosa Garden Design has been awarded GOLD at... - [From Being 'Kidnapped' to Making Connections: How Punting Sparked Fabulous Business Relationships](https://opendoorz.biz/from-being-kidnapped-to-making-connections-how-punting-sparked-fabulous-business-relationships/): Who knew a sunny afternoon on the Thames, a cheeky bit of ‘kidnapping’, and a punt or two could be... - [Opendoorz Members Dominate at This Year's Oxfordshire Business Awards](https://opendoorz.biz/opendoorz-members-dominate-at-this-years-oxfordshire-business-awards/): What a night! The Oxfordshire Business Awards rolled around again last week, and honestly, we couldn’t be prouder of how... - [Time Flies and Change Happens: Reflections on Quarter One at Opendoorz](https://opendoorz.biz/time-flies-and-change-happens-reflections-on-quarter-one-at-opendoorz/): Well, they do say time flies when you’re having fun, and I honestly can’t quite believe how quickly the past... - [Finding Community and Confidence: Helen Parsons’ Journey with Opendoorz](https://opendoorz.biz/finding-community-and-confidence-helen-parsons-journey-with-opendoorz/): At Opendoorz, we believe that business growth starts with genuine relationships- and Helen Parsons of Helen Parsons Garden Design exemplifies... - [Building Business Through Relationships: A Conversation with Ben Thompson](https://opendoorz.biz/building-business-through-relationships-a-conversation-with-ben-thompson/): At Opendoorz, we’re all about meaningful connections, and few embody that spirit better than Ben Thompson, founder of Thompson &... - [Meet our Associate Directors of Opendoorz: A Strong Team for a Bright Future](https://opendoorz.biz/meet-our-associate-directors-of-opendoorz-a-strong-team-for-a-bright-future/): At Opendoorz, we believe in the power of collaboration, connections, and leadership. As we continue to grow and expand our... - [Building Stronger Communities Together](https://opendoorz.biz/building-stronger-communities-together/): At Opendoorz we have made it a priority to give back to our local communities. In 2024 rather than having... - [Sandler Training](https://opendoorz.biz/sandler-training/): The development of strategic partners and good reliable introducers has been incredibly rewarding - [The Power of Recognition: Why Entering Business Awards is a Must](https://opendoorz.biz/the-power-of-recognition-why-entering-business-awards-is-a-must/): Entering your business into local and national awards can bring a wealth of benefits. First and foremost, it’s a fantastic... - [Pebble Marketing](https://opendoorz.biz/pebble-marketing/): It’s like a light bulb moment of how your services can help solve a problem. - [Park Lane People](https://opendoorz.biz/park-lane-people/): Other members not only using our Recruitment services for their own companies, but also making introductions to some of their... - [Habitat+ Architects](https://opendoorz.biz/habitat-architects/): Practicing talking about my business, practicing presenting and speaking and getting valuable feedback and insight from other members have accelerated... - [Why Change is Good for Business- Embracing the Winds of Transformation…](https://opendoorz.biz/why-change-is-good-for-business-embracing-the-winds-of-transformation/): In today’s fast-paced world, change has become an inevitable part of business life. From shifting market trends and evolving consumer... - [Embracing Our Vision, Mission, and Values: The Heart of Our Community](https://opendoorz.biz/embracing-our-vision-mission-and-values-the-heart-of-our-community/): At Opendoorz, our vision, mission, and values are more than just statements; they are the guiding principles that inspire our... - [The Power of a Trusted Network: How Two Calls Can Solve Any Business Problem](https://opendoorz.biz/the-power-of-a-trusted-network-how-two-calls-can-solve-any-business-problem/): In the fast-paced world of business, challenges are inevitable. From unexpected project roadblocks to sourcing the right expertise, the ability... - [Debunk the Myths](https://opendoorz.biz/debunk-the-myths/): Have you ever given thought to what the myths are around your business? What are the worries associated with your... - [How do my sensitive nipples, a beer-drinking Shetland pony, and Opendoorz's strategy go hand in hand?](https://opendoorz.biz/how-do-my-sensitive-nipples-a-beer-drinking-shetland-pony-and-opendoorzs-strategy-go-hand-in-hand/): Our Associate Director Jon Ellard gives a brief glimpse of how his brain works... - [Turning Competition into Collaboration](https://opendoorz.biz/turning-competition-into-collaboration/): Being a small business owner is like riding a seesaw — thrilling highs followed by stomach flipping lows, all while... - [I HAVE A QUESTION!](https://opendoorz.biz/i-have-a-question/): When running your business how often do you wish you could discuss a challenge with other business owners to see... - [Shout from the Rooftops….](https://opendoorz.biz/shout-from-the-rooftops/): We can all blow our own trumpets but there’s nothing better than hearing the GREAT stuff from someone else. Andy... - [Generosity of Spirit... Our Charity Partners for 2024](https://opendoorz.biz/generosity-of-spirit-our-charity-partners-for-2024/): This year we've chosen some phenomenal charities to become our charity partners for 2024. Each of our groups have chosen... - [Stop Networking and Start Building!](https://opendoorz.biz/stop-networking-and-start-building/): Are you hoping your next networking meeting will be the one? But you seem to be collecting lots of business... - [???? Exciting end to 2023 and a great Kick-Start to 2024 at Opendoorz ????](https://opendoorz.biz/%f0%9f%8c%9f-exciting-end-to-2023-and-a-great-kick-start-to-2024-at-opendoorz-%f0%9f%8c%9f/): Wow! What a year 2023 was, and we can proudly say a whopping £2,827,431 worth of business was received by... - [Unlocking Your Success Through Opendoorz CPD sessions](https://opendoorz.biz/unlocking-your-success-through-opendoorz-cpd-sessions/): In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of business and professional development, continuous learning is the key to staying ahead of... - [Brand New Business?](https://opendoorz.biz/brand-new-business/): How many times has a conversation sparked some great creative thoughts? - [As business owners or as a business leader are we supposed to know it all?](https://opendoorz.biz/as-business-owners-or-as-a-business-leader-are-we-supposed-to-know-it-all/): Surely not, but how do we squeeze personal and professional development into a working week when we’re already time poor... - [Want to know how to be an award winning business owner?](https://opendoorz.biz/want-to-know-how-to-be-an-award-winning-business-owner/): Want to know how to be an award winning business owner? Look after those who help you grow... - [If you’re not mixing business and pleasure – why the hell not?!](https://opendoorz.biz/if-youre-not-mixing-business-and-pleasure-why-the-hell-not/): The Opendoorz ultimate guide to building great networking relationships. Opendoorz Directors, Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns, share the big lessons... - [Go West! Opendoorz comes to Cheltenham](https://opendoorz.biz/go-west-opendoorz-comes-to-cheltenham/): The Pet Shop Boys said ‘Go West’ so we did and now Cheltenham is buzzing with the Opendoorz winning formula... - [Blowing our own Trumpet!](https://opendoorz.biz/blowing-our-own-trumpet/): Why supporting local causes is good for business If you want to be a successful business, start by giving back. - [Fall in love with networking this Valentine’s](https://opendoorz.biz/fall-in-love-with-networking-this-valentines/): If you find networking as awkward as going on a first date, then check out our top tips for making... - [Broadcast your brilliance…](https://opendoorz.biz/broadcast-your-brilliance/): How to build your personal brand through networking You don’t have to be an influencer or celebrity A lister to... - [Cheltenham](https://opendoorz.biz/cheltenham/): Meetings held at the iconic 18th Century Queens Hotel. - [New Year’s Networking Resolutions](https://opendoorz.biz/new-years-networking-resolutions/): Want to ensure 2023 is a great year in business for you? Make networking a key part of your marketing... - [Coming soon to Newbury and Marlow…](https://opendoorz.biz/coming-soon-to-newbury-and-marlow/): There’s a buzz amongst business owners in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire at the moment and it’s all to do with some... - [Marlow](https://opendoorz.biz/marlow/): Meetings held at the tranquil Harleyford Golf Club. - [Do you remember your first time?](https://opendoorz.biz/do-you-remember-your-first-time/): First time networking that is (what did you think we were talking about? ! ) Networking nerves can really get... - [There’s NO sexy sell!](https://opendoorz.biz/theres-no-sexy-sell/): How to tell compelling stories if you’re in Professional Services. We know two people who’ve got the answer... because let’s... - [In the property sector and not networking? Are you mad?!](https://opendoorz.biz/in-the-property-sector-and-not-networking-are-you-mad/): Opendoorz Directors Sonia Kearns and Cathy Dunbabin look at the benefits of joining Opendoorz for those in the property sector... - [Could you be the next member of Opendoorz?](https://opendoorz.biz/could-you-be-the-next-member-of-opendoorz/): Opendoorz Director, Sonia Kearns, explains the attributes they look for in new Opendoorz members - a hint: quality over quantity! - [Thame](https://opendoorz.biz/thame/): Meetings held at The Oxfordshire Hotel and Golf Club. - [If music is the food of love, collaboration is the key to business success](https://opendoorz.biz/if-music-is-the-food-of-love-collaboration-is-the-key-to-business-success/): Opendoorz Director, Sonia Kearns, explores the ‘buzz’ she gets when Opendoorz members form long-lasting, fruitful collaborations! - [Wallingford and Opendoorz – a perfect match](https://opendoorz.biz/wallingford-in-the-spotlight/): A new Opendoorz group in Wallingford is the latest new kid on the block for this rapidly growing professional business... - [Old birds, new tricks and a bucketful of expertise…](https://opendoorz.biz/old-birds-new-tricks-and-a-bucketful-of-expertise/): If you’re looking to up your game when it comes to building a trusted network of business connections, it’s a... - [As a small business you NEED networking…](https://opendoorz.biz/as-a-small-business-you-need-networking-if-youre-a-small-business-owner-and-networking-is-not-a-key-part-of-your-marketing-strategy-you-could-be-missing-out-on-a-powerful-tool-that-w/): As MD of Digital Gearbox, Becky Hopkin, is used to managing a business that deals with national and international clients... - [How to be a successful networker in 2022](https://opendoorz.biz/how-to-be-a-successful-networker-in-2022/): Effective networking can reap rewards for your business but the key is not to focus on the money. Follow our... - [How Opendoorz professional networking has helped our business grow and become more profitable.](https://opendoorz.biz/how-opendoorz-professional-networking-has-helped-our-business-grow-and-become-more-profitable/): Opendoorz member, Rob Allaway - MD at DevComms, reveals how his business has benefitted from being part of Oxfordshire’s foremost... - [Opendoorz members light up Ronald McDonald House at the John Radcliffe Hospital](https://opendoorz.biz/opendoorz-members-light-up-ronald-mcdonald-house-at-the-john-radcliffe-hospital/): The charity that provides a free ‘home from home’ place to stay for families while their child is in hospital... - [How to turn your customers into raving fans.](https://opendoorz.biz/how-to-turn-your-customers-into-raving-fans/): Opendoorz member, David Haimes - award winning coach within the worlds largest coaching firm, Action Coach, explains how with a... - [Opendoorz is growing again and you could be a part of it](https://opendoorz.biz/opendoorz-is-growing-again-and-you-could-be-a-part-of-it/): Do you want to be part of one of the fastest growing, most successful networking groups in Oxfordshire? Read on... - [Are you the one? How to find your perfect networking partners](https://opendoorz.biz/are-you-the-one-how-to-find-your-perfect-networking-partners/): Opendoorz Director, Cathy Dunbabin, shares the secret to building long-term, effective professional relationships. Professional relationships are just like personal ones.... - [How to improve your presentation skills](https://opendoorz.biz/how-to-improve-your-presentation-skills/): How you present is just as important as what you present. Communications expert, Anthony Donovan, shares his top tips to... - [Wallingford](https://opendoorz.biz/professional-networking-events-south-oxford/): Meetings held at The George Hotel in Wallingford, South Oxfordshire. - [Generosity of Spirit](https://opendoorz.biz/generosity-of-spirit/): Supporting charities is a crucial part of what makes Opendoorz professional business networking so successful - [Networth of your Network](https://opendoorz.biz/networth-of-your-network/): Opendoorz Director, Cathy Dunbabin, shares a simple exercise to help you quantify the net worth of your network and identify... - [Networking in the new normal](https://opendoorz.biz/networking-in-the-new-normal/): How to blend virtual and face to face networking for maximum results - [A Spring in our Step…](https://opendoorz.biz/a-spring-in-our-step/): How the virtual world has brought positive changes to business networking - [For the love of networking](https://opendoorz.biz/for-the-love-of-networking/): The ultimate guide on how to fall (and stay) in love with networking - [Fuelled by fizz!](https://opendoorz.biz/fuelled-by-fizz/): The networking success story of Opendoorz - [Make 2021 the year you get more out of networking](https://opendoorz.biz/make-2021-the-year-you-get-more-out-of-networking/): A networking plan can help you reap the rewards - [2020: best forgotten? Why it’s actually the year we really need to remember](https://opendoorz.biz/2020-best-forgotten-why-its-actually-the-year-we-really-need-to-remember/): We all have years that we’d rather forget, 1984 was a particularly bad one in terms of fashion for me!... - [The psychology of successful networking](https://opendoorz.biz/the-psychology-of-successful-networking/): The top 6 psychology tricks you can use for better networking - [The way out of recession is to keep the business flowing](https://opendoorz.biz/the-way-out-of-recession-is-to-keep-the-business-flowing/): When times are hard, we need to fight the urge to baton down the hatches and keep the wheels of... - [The Secrets of Successful Networking](https://opendoorz.biz/the-secrets-of-successful-networking/): Networking experts, Cathy & Sonia, share the secrets to building a successful professional business networking group. - [Oxford](https://opendoorz.biz/professional-networking-events-in-oxford/): Meetings held at the newly refurbished Holiday Inn Oxford by IHG. - [North Oxford](https://opendoorz.biz/professional-networking-events-in-north-oxford/): Meetings held at the Bicester Hotel Golf & Spa. - [Minster](https://opendoorz.biz/professional-networking-events-in-minster/): Meetings held at The old Swan & Minster Mill. - [Trinity](https://opendoorz.biz/trinity/): Meetings held at the newly refurbished Holiday Inn Oxford by IHG. - [Henley Upon Thames](https://opendoorz.biz/henley/): Meetings held at the prestigious, private members Leander Club. - [Frilford](https://opendoorz.biz/milton-park/): Meetings held at the Frilford Heath Golf Club. - [The business benefits of collaboration](https://opendoorz.biz/the-business-benefits-of-collaboration/): Creating win-win situations - [Back on track with our business plan](https://opendoorz.biz/back-on-track-with-our-business-plan/): COVID might have thrown Opendoorz a curve ball but we’re not letting it get in the way of ambitious goals! - [Networking in your PJs](https://opendoorz.biz/networking-in-your-pjs/): 5 Top Tips for better online networking - [7 Top Tips for better Time Management](https://opendoorz.biz/7-top-tips-for-better-time-management/): You don’t need more hours in a day, you just need to make better use of the ones you’ve got. - [Learning to Pivot](https://opendoorz.biz/learning-to-pivot/): How do you keep your business going when the model is based on face to face networking? - [Why you need to give back if you want to be a successful business](https://opendoorz.biz/why-you-need-to-give-back-if-you-want-to-be-a-successful-business/): How to be a ‘generous’ business and why it’s so crucial to your long term success. - [The 7 Traits of Successful Networkers](https://opendoorz.biz/the-7-traits-of-successful-networkers/): Get more out of your networking by picking up these good habits. - [The Opendoorz guide to finding your unique selling point in 2020](https://opendoorz.biz/the-opendoorz-guide-to-finding-your-unique-selling-point-in-2020/): Standing out from the crowd is a good thing (a really good thing). - [Want to have your best ever year in 2020? Don’t leave it to chance…](https://opendoorz.biz/want-to-have-your-best-ever-year-in-2020-dont-leave-it-to-chance/): Amidst all the Christmas partying and festive activities, it’s easy to let the fact slip by that in just a... - [Does your networking add up?](https://opendoorz.biz/does-your-networking-add-up/): Have you ever wondered what the winning formulas are for networking? Well, for a start it’s definitely not: Anyone +... # # Detailed Content ## Pages Charity Partners We’re proud to work with the following local charities. Click on each one to learn more and discover their latest events. (more... ) This Cookie Policy was last updated on February 12, 2025 and applies to citizens and legal permanent residents of the United Kingdom. 1. IntroductionOur website, https://opendoorz. biz (hereinafter: "the website") uses cookies and other related technologies (for convenience all technologies are referred to as "cookies"). Cookies are also placed by third parties we have engaged. In the document below we inform you about the use of cookies on our website. 2. What are cookies? A cookie is a small simple file that is sent along with pages of this website and stored by your browser on the hard drive of your computer or another device. The information stored therein may be returned to our servers or to the servers of the relevant third parties during a subsequent visit. 3. What are scripts? A script is a piece of program code that is used to make our website function properly and interactively. This code is executed on our server or on your device. 4. What is a web beacon? A web beacon (or a pixel tag) is a small, invisible piece of text or image on a website that is used to monitor traffic on a website. In order to do this, various data about you is stored using web beacons. 5. Cookies5. 1 Technical or functional cookiesSome cookies ensure that certain parts of the website work properly and that your user preferences remain known. By placing functional cookies, we make it easier for you to visit our website. This way,... Our Groups View on Map (more... ) Meet the Opendoorz Team. When it comes to successful networking, there’s not much this lot don’t know! Cathy Dunbabin Founder & Managing Director linkedin Cathy is a dynamic connector and eternal optimist, always eager to bring the right people together at just the right moment. With an innate ability to recognise synergies, she thrives on helping like-minded individuals build meaningful relationships. Her passion for networking extends to helping businesses, particularly start-ups and solopreneurs, leverage opportunities, expand their horizons, and create lasting professional growth. When she’s not creating the perfect match, Cathy’s other passions include golf and running round with her grandchildren. She’s also partial to a night out and loves any excuse to glam up! Kate Harriott Operations Director linkedin Kate has a positive energy that the rest of us would like to bottle and steal! Her in-depth understanding of how and why Opendoorz works so well keeps things running smoothly and means she’s able to identify opportunities to boost performance. She is often the first port of call for new members, helping them find their feet and supporting them through the first year. She loves to drive growth, build strong connections, and make sure every member thrives in their membership. Off the clock, you’ll find Kate wrangling her two little ones, jetting off on new adventures, or catching up with friends—preferably over a bottle of bubbly! Caroline O’Connor Communications Director linkedin Caroline is a powerhouse of marketing expertise, having built and managed her own successful marketing consultancy for many... What matters to us and to our members. Opendoorz is more than networking, it’s a community built on shared values. At Opendoorz, we are so much more than just a networking group. Since 2011, we’ve been building a community of likeminded business owners and directors who share the same values, principles and sense of fun. Our concept is fresh, unique, innovative - and it works! What matters to us Our Vision To be the business networking group of choice for inspirational business owners, partners and directors. Our Mission Each Opendoorz group will deliver a unique, vibrant, educational and fun environment which will foster long-term trusted relationships within its membership. Our Values These are the elements that matter to us, shape our groups and define our members. Never compromise We will always be selective about our membership, it’s the key to our success. Our members must add value to their group and bring with them the potential for great connections and opportunities. Bring out the best in everyone We want to help you grow, personally and professionally, and the supportive, challenging environment of our groups is the perfect space to do this whilst sharing ideas, feedback and discussion. Energise and motivate We work hard to keep Opendoorz positive and productive. We want to keep things fresh and exciting, plus we’re naturally inquisitive so if you’ve got a new idea, we’re always open to hearing it. A ‘grown up’ approach We’re not one for endless rules but respect and courtesy matter. That’s... Terms & Conditions These terms and conditions govern your use of our website. Our terms have been provided and approved by legal documents provider LegalCentre. co. uk. Please read the terms in full before you use this Website. If you do not accept these terms, please do not use this Website. Using the Website implies that you accept these terms. We do occasionally update these terms so please refer back to them in the future. 1. Site Access 1. 1 You will be able to access the majority of this Website without having to register any details with us. However, particular areas of this Website will only be accessible only if you have registered. 2. Use of Website 2. 1 You are permitted to use our website for your own purposes and to print and download material from this Website provided that you do not modify any content without our consent. Material on this website must not be republished online or offline without our permission. 2. 2 The copyright and other intellectual property rights in all material on this Website are owned by us or our licensors and must not be reproduced without our prior consent. 2. 3 Subject to paragraph 2. 1, no part of this Website may be reproduced without our prior written permission. 3. Site Uptime 3. 1 We take all reasonable steps to ensure that this Website is available 24 hours every day, 365 days per year. However, websites do sometimes encounter downtime due to server... The Opendoorz Difference Building your network together. Fun, aspirational and rewarding professional business networking across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire What sets us apart? Opendoorz isn’t a networking group. We’re a professional business community, constantly evolving and broadening thanks to our fabulous members and the unique qualities and connections they bring with them. Our approach is all about bringing together the highest calibre members and providing them with a forum to share their knowledge and expertise. Supporting and learning from each other in this way means that as a member, your Opendoorz group family quickly become your biggest cheerleaders, your go to people for advice and feedback and firm friends to share a drink with. How do we do it? Our approach has served us well for more than a decade, and the results speak for themselves as we continue to establish new groups across south-west and central England. But what’s in that special Opendoorz mix that makes it such a hit? Numbers are important, but when it comes to business connections it’s quality not quantity that is our focus. Like the best coffee, we ensure we have the perfect blend by being selective over choosing new members to join. It’s about determining who will be a good fit with the existing membership and the value they will add in terms of sharing their expertise, ideas and connections with the group. Trackable success Anecdotal evidence is great, but we want to go deeper and track the business results that Opendoorz is... Testimonials What Members say about Opendoorz... Welcome to the Testimonials page for Opendoorz, where our members share their experiences and success stories. Opendoorz is more than just a networking group; it’s a dynamic community built on connection, collaboration, and mutual growth. Read More... Helen Jones Partner, McGills "So, why do I keep coming back to Opendoorz? It's the incredible people, the invaluable lessons, and the trust and camaraderie we share. Knowing I can rely on these peers for support and expertise is priceless. And it's surreal to realize that I'm considered one of those trusted peers... " Sara Southey Owner, The Southey Way "As someone who specialises in the health and wellbeing of business owners and being one myself, I recognised that I needed to be a part of a community of like-minded professionals. Some of the best people I’ve met networking have been Opendoorz members so it was a no brainer to get involved. And it certainly delivers! " Kathryn Fell Director "The dynamics and the good energy are uplifting. There is a very high calibre of amazing business owners around one table that are sincerely invested in helping you grow your network, you can learn and improve your own business as well as supporting the group too. Honestly the best decision I have made about my business to date. I literally skip to each meeting and last weeks meeting was a cracker! " Daniel Barnes Partner, Barnes Wealth Management "The Opendoorz Summer Punting and BBQ is always a... Privacy Policy Background Whilst we’re not ones for long spiels of information we understand that your privacy is important to you and that you care about how your personal data is used. We respect and value the privacy of all our contacts and will only collect and use personal data in ways that are described here, and in a way that is consistent with our obligations and your rights under the law. 1. Information About Us Opendoorz Limited Company registered in England under company number 07421536 Registered Address; 8 King Edwards Street Oxford OX1 4HL Office Address; Sandford Gate, Sandy Lane West, Oxford OX4 6LB. VAT number: 103988893 Data Protection Officer – Kate Harriott Email address; kate@opendoorz. biz Postal Address; Sandford Gate, Sandy Lane West, Oxford OX4 6LB. 2. What Does This Notice Cover? This Privacy Information explains how we use your personal data: how it is collected, how it is held, and how it is processed. It also explains your rights under the law relating to your personal data. 3. What is Personal Data? Personal data is defined by the General Data Protection Regulation (EU Regulation 2016/679) (the “GDPR”) as ‘any information relating to an identifiable person who can be directly or indirectly identified in particular by reference to an identifier’. Personal data is, in simpler terms, any information about you that enables you to be identified. Personal data covers obvious information such as your name and contact details, but it also covers less obvious information such as identification... Networking done differently. The professional business network for business leaders in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire. Our Groups Get in touch Building connections that matter When it comes to business, surrounding yourself with the right people is undoubtedly the key to success, but finding your tribe is not always easy. Opendoorz is a professional business network. A forum for you to build those real relationships, connections that will strengthen and support your business helping it, and you, to grow and develop - with a few laughs thrown in along the way. Explore our groups Think of us as the grown-ups of networking When it comes to networking, we’ve been there and done it and we’re here to stop you spending dull, fruitless hours at traditional networking events where all you take away is a lukewarm coffee. We understand how to bring the right people together at the right time to get the very best results. Our ethos is simple We bring together small groups of aspirational, motivated business owners and directors who are keen to share their own experience and knowledge and learn from other like-minded individuals. Our carefully curated membership means the atmosphere in every group is ripe for the opportunities to flow. Learn more about us Our meetings are structured This means you know what you’re going to get, everyone comes prepared, and we make the most of every second. We make networking a core element of your business success, rather than an occasional chore. Our monthly members only... Doing networking differently for over a decade. We are the networking experts for Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire Opendoorz has always been about making the most of every opportunity. When time is in short supply you need to know that you’re spending it wisely particularly when it comes to your business. Bringing the fun As a business owner or director, all too often you live and breathe your work, but we firmly believe that shouldn’t be at the expense of enjoying yourself. Opendoorz is about creating a supportive, ambitious network for you and your business, one that challenges and drives you but also ensures that you don’t miss out on the fun and we’re pretty good at making sure you’ve got a glass in your hand as well. Founders Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns were friends first. With much in common, including a wealth of business and networking experience they recognised the networking arena was changing, with professionals becoming increasingly time poor, and frustrated with the poor return from larger, more traditional networking events. They realised this was the ideal opportunity to create a professional networking membership group with a difference. And so, in January 2011, Sonia and Cathy launched the first Opendoorz group in central Oxford. "We shared many of the same values, were heading in similar directions, laughed at lots of the same things and above all trusted, valued and thought highly of each other" Size matters The combination of regular, members only meetings with monthly guest events bringing... Opendoorz Members Opendoorz Members are trusted professionals and experts in their fields. You can have the utmost confidence in referring and using their services. Testimonials What our members and guests had to say. No matter how good we think we are it’s what our members and guests say that matters most... Rob Allaway, MD DevComms Rob Allaway, MD DevComms “In addition to referrals, the real value from Opendoorz membership has been access to other quality professionals. These new partnerships have improved the performance of our business and widened the scope of what we offer to our clients. ” Liz Sparrow, Partner Ridge Architecture Liz Sparrow, Partner Ridge Architecture “Opendoorz has been fantastic for my business, not just financially but for the strong connections I have made and personal development I have undergone since joining. A wholly wonderful group of positive and inspiring people that you want to spend time with! ” Peter Smith, Partner The M Group Peter Smith, Partner The M Group “The business I have gained through Opendoorz has more than covered any financial cost, but more importantly it is a fantastic resource to interact with business peers. ” Kirsten Phipps Get, MD Phoegon Consulting Kirsten Phipps Get, MD Phoegon Consulting “The members are all actively managing or growing their businesses – there is a great dynamic and the environment is positive and creative. I feel confident about referring my business and personal contacts to the members of this group. ” (more... ) Our Events Growing your professional network. Helping you build those key connections that your business needs The clue is in our name, at Opendoorz we’re always on the lookout for new connections and opportunities to help you and your business to grow. _R6A0734-(1) _R6A1366 _R6A0856 _R6A1413 _R6A0813-1-(1) _R6A1608-(1) Member Events Our monthly Member Events are structured to make the best use of your time and all follow the same format. Combining discussion, development and learning they’re a trusted, safe environment for members to raise questions about a business issue, share something they’ve learned, use fellow members as a sounding board for new ideas or broaden their knowledge through other’s expertise. All washed down with a glass of something lovely and a chance to decompress in great surroundings. _MG_3737 DSCA1211-ge _MG_3847 DSCA1237-ge _R6A1689-ge DSCA1258-ge Guest Events Our monthly Guest Events are about welcoming business professionals from across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Buckinghamshire, providing a forum to meet and connect with our members, all of whom are like-minded and quite frankly amazing business owners, at a local meeting. As a guest, it’s the perfect occasion to meet with business owners, directors and partners who are all looking to develop themselves and their business. For our members, it’s another opportunity to grow their network or learn more about another industry or skill. Whilst the meetings are structured, that doesn’t mean dull and boring, it’s simply to keep things moving so there’s time to grab a drink and socialise as well. For us, the fun... Contact Opendoorz Get in touch with us. The best way to find out more about us and our members is to come and meet us. If you’d like an invitation to a guest event then please do get in touch. Make an enquiry Please fill in the form below and a member of the team will contact you shortly. If you prefer to email directly please send your message to admin@opendoorz. biz. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Please enable JavaScript in your browser to complete this form. Name *FirstLastEmail * visiting Name Profession Phone *Profession *Website *Which group would you be interested in visitingGroup of interest:BanburyCheltenhamCirencesterMinsterFrilfordHenley Upon ThamesMarlowNorth CotswoldsNorth OxfordOxfordThameTrinityWallingfordAre you a business or charity? Are you a business or charity? Owner/Director/PartnerCharityBusiness Development or EmployeeSubmit _R6A1413 _MG_3655 _R6A1366 0J9A0159 linkedin admin@opendoorz. biz Monthly Guest Events Third Tuesday of the month BanburyOxford Fourth Tuesday of the month HenleyCheltenham Third Wednesday of the month MinsterTrinity Third Thursday of the month CirencesterMarlowNorth Oxford Fourth Thursday of the month Frilford Thame Wallingford (more... ) ## Posts Helping terminally ill children live life to the full. We are a charity and a place where families can make the most of their time together and create happy memories during their children’s short lives. We help local families cope with the challenges of looking after a terminally ill baby or child who will die prematurely. Helen & Douglas House is a homely place for local children, living with life-limiting and terminal conditions, and their families. We provide care in a warm, loving environment. Our hospice is filled with laughter, whilst also being peaceful place where families can create happy memories in their last days, weeks, months or years together. More children than ever are living with life‑limiting illnesses and by 2030, the number of children needing palliative care could rise by 30%, yet statutory funding covers only 11% of what’s needed. That’s why corporate support like yours is crucial in helping to fund Helen & Douglas House to help children and their families live every moment to the full. There are many ways you and your staff can make a huge difference to the children and families who we care for at Helen & Douglas House. Please do reach out for an informal chat about your business and ways you could support. We improve lives and tackle inequality by investing in Oxfordshire’s dynamic charitable sector. Oxfordshire Community Foundation (OCF) is a charity that builds thriving communities through effective philanthropy. Our county’s wealth, success and beauty hide a number of serious and shocking social problems. The pandemic and the current huge increases in the cost of living have made these issues worse, while the climate crisis is becoming ever more urgent. Local donors choose to work with OCF because we bring an in-depth understanding of these needs and priority issues, alongside trusted relationships with our network of grassroots delivery charities and community groups. We champion this vibrant local charity sector as a crucial way to combat issues such as homelessness, educational inequality, and loneliness and isolation, awarding around £2 million in grants annually. In 2025 we celebrated our 30th birthday, and a total of £20 million in grants made to local charitable organisations since 1995. We work with philanthropists, businesses and the public sector, pooling their funds so that they can make a bigger difference together. A key way that OCF helps philanthropic people is through our donor-advised funds: a ringfenced charitable fund held and managed on a donor’s behalf by OCF. It can be an effective way to carry out your personal or corporate charitable ambitions, without the hassle and administration of creating a formal foundation. Funders can feel confident of a safe pair of hands for their contributions, as we implement strong governance processes; conduct thorough due diligence on all grant applications; and report back with inspiring stories on the impact of their support.... The Berin Centre in Berinsfield is a community hub that supports people of all ages to thrive. We offer crucial early years services, activities and tailored support for adults, and a whole host of food-based input from an emergency food bank to cooking classes, alongside our own Community Cafe - The Burrow. We are the one-stop-shop that helps a community to navigate life's challenges, grow in confidence, and hone new skills. We had more than 15,000 visitors last year, and we aim to make a difference for each and every one of them: 98% of people surveyed reported improvements in at least one of our key areas - wellbeing, relationships, confidence and skills. If you haven't discovered us yet, please do pay us a visit - we'd love to welcome you! Events All our welcome at our annual Summer Celebration event on the 1st of September, 1pm-3pm - join us at The Berin Centre for a barbecue, children's activities, croquet, and much more! Response is a mental health and housing charity supporting people with mental health needs and multiple disadvantages across Buckinghamshire, Oxfordshire, and Berkshire. Today, over 500 adults and young people depend on us for mental health support and a safe place to call home. We work alongside each person as they rebuild confidence, regain stability, and start to move forward again. We support people facing serious mental health challenges, including those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, helping them build stable, independent lives within their communities. Our work matters because good mental health support changes lives. Safe housing, meaningful activities, connection, and practical support can prevent crisis, reduce isolation, and help people recover and move forward with confidence. Our support ranges from early intervention provided in the community, through to specialist high intensity support in a residential setting. We work with young people from 11 years of age, adults and older adults. Every year, we support hundreds of people across the Thames Valley through services designed around dignity, independence, and long-term recovery. Upcoming events Please check our get involved page on our website for upcoming events including Oxford Half Marathon, Bike Oxford and much more . We provide compassionate care to people in Oxfordshire facing life-limiting illness, and support to their family and friends. Founded in 1976, Sobell House was one of the UK’s earliest modern hospices to exist. We help people to live well for as long as they can, and, when the time comes, help them have a ‘good death’. The heart of our care takes place at our hospice in Oxford, but most of our care is provided within Oxford's hospitals or to patients at home. We aim to ensure that excellent palliative and end-of-life care is available to everybody in our community who needs it. Every year, we care for over 5,000 people and their loved ones. Between April 2024 and March 2025... 475 patients stayed on our inpatient unit. 38,567 calls were made from the Palliative Care Hub to provide our patients with support, care, and advice. Our Home Hospice Care team made 16,661 visits. 779 bereavement sessions were delivered to families and friends following the death of a loved one. 1,058 music and art therapy sessions were held. Over 20,000 delicious meals were cooked by our catering team. Children Heard And Seen is a charity that is dedicated to helping children, young people, and families affected by parental imprisonment. We are committed to addressing their needs, listening to their concerns, and ensuring their voices are heard. One to one support with specialised staff for children to explore and understand their emotions surrounding their family member in prison Support for parents and carers around communicating with children, including ways to tell your child that their parent is in prison Activity groups for children to explore feelings and meet others in similar circumstances which helps to reduce their isolation Volunteer mentoring to help children process emotions with a neutral person outside of the family home Parenting support including peer support groups for parents and carers Online support and online activities for children Face to face activity days in Oxfordshire, including our annual Summer Residential Providing Nursing Respite Care for Gloucestershire’s Life-Limited and Life-Threatened Young Children Every young child living in Gloucestershire who is severely disabled, life-limited or life-threatened will have access to specialist respite care and support to help enrich their lives and the lives of their families. James Hopkins Trust believe that every child deserves to experience joy, laughter and love, regardless of their complex medical needs, diagnosis or condition. For over 30 years, we have been dedicated to providing unwavering support to children in Gloucestershire who are life-limited or life-threatened, empowering them to live life to the fullest. Our mission is simple: to provide family-centred care and support adapted to the children’s individual needs, either at Kites Corner or in the home. Caring for a disabled child is a labour of love, but it can also be physically and emotionally demanding. Parents often struggle juggling the additional responsibilities that their child’s condition or disability brings to family life. We’re here to offer families the support they require, providing a safe and caring space for their child while they take a well-deserved break. It’s a chance for parents to unwind, be themselves and enjoy their role as caregivers. Siblings, who might be feeling isolated or overwhelmed, get an opportunity to play together, share special moments and have some fun too. When someone is diagnosed with a life-limiting illness, it can be extremely distressing for the person affected, as well as their family and friends. Katharine House Hospice is with them throughout their entire journey, from diagnosis to end-of-life care and bereavement support, whether for days, weeks, months or years. Our team, made up of nurses, doctors, social workers, chaplains, clinicians, specialists, counsellors and more deliver a wide range of services to support adults with life-limiting illnesses across north Oxfordshire and south Northamptonshire. We provide the individualised care our patients need, where and when they need it - either in their homes, at our hospice, in care homes or in hospital. Our specialist, palliative care considers the physical, emotional, social and spiritual needs of our patients, helping them to make the most of the time they have left and create quality memories with their loved ones. Caring for our community All our services are free to our patients, so we rely on donations and support from the community to continue providing this vital care. It currently costs £5. 9 million each year to run the hospice. This equates to £16,261 per day! ' When Brian stayed at the hospice to receive specialist care and relief from the pain caused by his terminal cancer, he told us: “I thought it was the beginning of the end. In fact, it was the beginning of a new beginning. ” By supporting Katharine House Hospice, you will make a positive contribution to the community in which you work and from which you recruit, as well as actively showing your support for a charity valued by your customers, employees and wider stakeholders. More importantly, you will be helping to fund all those things that allow us to make every moment matter for our patients and... The National Foundation for Retired Service Animals (NFRSA) is a registered charity (1200949) supporting retired dogs and horses from the Police, Fire & Rescue, Prison, Border Force and National Crime Agency services. We are proud to support NHS specialist search dogs and retirees from the MOD Police and RAF Police Military Working Dogs. With more than 650 members (dogs and horses) we have gifted more than £275,000 in grants since being founded in 2022. What Do We Do? When serving dogs and horses retire, the financial support they have enjoyed whilst working, including food, kennels or stables, medical and veterinary requirements, training and equipment ends. The NFRSA assists with veterinary costs for retired service animals across the UK. Why Are We Needed? Unfortunately, affordable insurance can sometimes be a challenge due to their age and training. This is obviously a worry for handlers who have their own financial obligations, and medical bills can become a concern. Why Should We Help? As is widely acknowledged, the relationship between a handler and their working partner is second to none, and it is unthinkable the pair may be broken up due to financial pressure. Unfortunately, this does happen, and it causes great distress for the handlers, their families, and of course the animals themselves. Part of Our Mission The NFRSA is there to help to ensure these wonderful animals can stay happily and healthily with the families they love, or with wonderful new owners, as the years advance. It’s the least they deserve when they’ve devoted most of their lives to keeping us, the public, safe. Our job, quite simply, is to ‘Protect Our Protectors’. Upcoming Events: Charity Cricket and Family Day – 26th July... Youth Work Changes Lives We exist to ensure that every young person -no matter their background - have the skills, support and connections they need to thrive. We resource the youth sector through training, leadership and organisational development, and long-term systems change. Together, we reach over 32,000 young people across Oxfordshire. We have the privilege of supporting the youth sector across Oxfordshire, training between 1,000 and 1,500 staff and volunteers each year. We create opportunities to connect, learn and grow through conferences, impact events, and our quarterly Children and Young People’s Forums, where best practice and insight are shared across the sector. The voluntary youth sector in Oxfordshire plays a vital role in shaping positive outcomes for young people and supporting their transition into adulthood. The more resourced, skilled and connected the sector is, the greater the long-term impact for young people, communities and society as a whole. Meetings held at the interesting and characterful Wroxton House Hotel Our Banbury venue is Wroxton House hotel which is set in the beautiful, thatched village of Wroxton, principally formed from three adjoining stone-built cottages dating back to 1649. The cottages have been developed, upgraded and adapted to provide todays interesting and characterful venue, which is just perfect our members. The venue offers creative space for established business owners to connect through meaningful conversation, shared experience, and peer learning. Our Banbury group meet twice a month, with one member’s meeting on the first Tuesday of the month and then a guest event which take place on the third Tuesday of the month. This is a great way to build a professional business network of trusted suppliers, strategic partners and potentially introducers of business. If you’d like to come along as our personal guest, please drop us a message. There are always new contacts, great afternoon tea and we even head to the bar afterwards – what’s not to love? If you’d like to join us, please register your interest here. Every now and then, someone shows up in a way that quietly reminds you what Opendoorz is really about. Richard Lannen of Nozzle Media, a member of our North Cotswold group, has done exactly that over the past few weeks and it deserves to be recognised. Recently, Richard delivered not one but two CPD sessions, first in North Cotswolds and then again in Cheltenham. Both sessions were engaging, practical and energising, the kind of CPD that doesn’t just inform, but actually lifts the room. You could feel people leaning in, asking better questions, and leaving with ideas they were genuinely excited to try. But what really stood out wasn’t just the expertise Richard shared, it was how he shared it. Rather than stopping at delivery, Richard openly demonstrated his craft. He recorded our MD Cathy, members and guests, creating video and podcast content live in the room. He then went a step further: editing that content and gifting it back, not just to Opendoorz, but to the members and guests involved – freely, generously, and without expectation. That behaviour speaks volumes. It reflects three core Opendoorz values in action: Generosity of spirit Richard gave his time, skill and energy in a way that was genuinely mindful of others. No hard sell. No strings attached. Just a clear intention to add value and help people show up more confidently in their own businesses. Bringing out the best in everyone By putting people at ease on camera and helping them see what’s... What started as a simple idea has grown into a strong, established business community built on trust, shared experience and real human connection. Over the years, Opendoorz has become far more than a place to network. It’s a community where members support one another, learn from one another, and lean on each other for expert advice, encouragement and friendship. Our values are strong and our focus continues to focus on becoming better and more able to support our existing members... we strive to create a network where magic happens. I believe it is the depth of relationship that makes the difference. It’s why business opportunities flow naturally, collaborations form easily, and introductions are made with confidence. Collectively, those relationships have created a significant amount of new business, not through pressure or transactions, but through trust built over time. It quite simply alleviates those ‘it’s lonely at the top’ moments. As Opendoorz grew I could feel the power of our network and wanted to extend the support to charities local to our businesses. We have supported countless charities and causes over the years, offering not just fundraising, but skills, advocacy and genuine care. It’s a reminder that doing good business and making a difference can be interwoven throughout a business and without doubt something that we will continue to do. Fifteen years on, for me not too much has changed... the heart of Opendoorz remains the same, a community of generous, committed professionals who continue to inspire and support one another.... Honestly, I’ve never believed in networking as a quick-win numbers game. The old model—collecting business cards, chasing referrals, ticking boxes—feels transactional and, frankly, outdated. Networking isn’t about entitlement or shortcuts. It’s about relationships. Real ones. When I launched Opendoorz nearly 15 years ago, I had a simple vision: create a space where business owners could connect authentically, share knowledge generously, and grow together. Today, that vision has become 12 thriving groups across three counties, generating over £22 million in recorded business. But here’s the truth: those results didn’t happen because people paid membership fees. They happened because people showed up consistently, behaved with integrity, and built trust. Behaviour is the real currency of networking. Accountability and generosity—not gimmicks—are what make introductions meaningful. When you treat networking as a human experience rather than a transaction, everything changes. Why Courage Creates Clarity Let’s talk about discomfort. Most people avoid it. They stick to what feels safe—small talk, surface-level connections—because vulnerability feels risky. But avoiding discomfort costs more than facing it. Leadership, whether in business or networking, means making hard decisions. It means having the courage to say, “This isn’t working,” or “I need help. ” At Opendoorz, we’ve built a culture where those conversations aren’t just allowed—they’re encouraged. Because clarity comes from courage. When you’re honest about your goals, challenges, and aspirations, people know how to help you. Belonging Drives Behaviour Here’s something I’ve learned over 25 years of networking: when people feel valued, they show up differently. They contribute more. They... Like so many business owners, I often forget to give myself a pat on the back... in fact I’m prone to personally shrugging off positive feedback of any description... isn’t it all in a day’s work! I've never really learned to stop, breathe and recognise what has been happening around me. I’m embarrassed to say that sometimes means forgetting to recognise those around me too. Staying head down and focussed is a good thing in many ways in business situations. It stops procrastination and drifting but when your year has been crazy busy taking time to reflect on how far you’ve come and what you’ve achieved is so important. As we enter Q4 I’ve been reflecting on a year of change, excitement and working harder than ever. Decisions have been made differently with Kate and Caroline, my new business partners. Desires to grow Opendoorz, that had lay dormant, have been given new life. Embracing new technologies and exploring the efficiencies they can offer has created a real buzz for us all. It has taken me time to adjust to the knowledge that the direction and future of the company now sits a little heavier on my shoulders, but I trust that those around me are capable and share my desire for Opendoorz success and will be with me through the highs and the lows. I have also reached out to my own network, some of them Opendoorz members but many are long standing connections and friends and I’ve been blown... The launch of Opendoorz Gloucestershire at the Kings Head Hotel in Cirencester brought together more than 70 business owners and professionals for an evening of connection, collaboration, and community. Opening New Doors in Gloucestershire Last week at the beautifully refurbished Kings Head Hotel in Cirencester, we celebrated something we had been quietly working towards for months: the launch of Opendoorz Gloucestershire. Cathy, Kate, and I hoped the evening would capture what Opendoorz stands for: real connections, genuine conversations, and a sense of belonging from the moment people walk in. It did all that and more. More than 70 business owners and professionals joined us, curious to see what makes Opendoorz different. Within minutes the room was filled with laughter, warmth, and easy conversation. That is what I love most about this community. You can feel when people are there to connect, not just collect contacts — and that feeling never gets old. When Cathy shared the story behind Opendoorz and why “networking done differently” is so much more than a tagline, you could see it resonate. There were smiles, nods, and that quiet moment when people really listen. It reminded me just how powerful shared values can be. The feedback has been lovely: “This was a great event, and a privilege to be invited – thank you, Cathy Dunbabin. Sitting down with these high achievers was a humbling experience – lovely people too. The new-look Kings Head is FAB, will be great for the town as well! ” -Nigel Chute, Chute Design “It was a really insightful and energising evening. Thank you so much for welcoming me there. I have already shared with a few people in my network... How Opendoorz relationships delivered a £1 million contract and created new business opportunities At #Opendoorz, collaboration isn’t just a value - it’s the foundation for building lasting relationships and the confidence to achieve more together. This ethos was powerfully demonstrated when Christian Haimes of Anne Haimes Interiors Ltd turned to the Opendoorz network to deliver on a complex client project. But beyond the project itself, what truly stands out is how trust and shared expertise within the network opened doors to exceptional business outcomes. When Christian received the brief, he knew it required more than creative design - it needed reliable, expert partners. Confident in the strength of his Opendoorz relationships, he collaborated with Kate Cooper of Absolute Architecture and Helen Parsons of Helen Parsons Landscape Design. Their shared understanding and trust enabled seamless progress at a crucial stage of the project. As the scope expanded to include a competitive construction tender, Christian again drew on the Opendoorz community. James High of The High Group london ultimately secured the £1 million contract - the largest in his company’s history. It was a career-defining moment born not from cold pitches, but from relationship-based confidence. As the project progresses Christian and James have shared that the same trust will continue to generate opportunities for others within the network. Each opportunity grew from relationships built on mutual respect, professional credibility, and the collaborative spirit that defines Opendoorz. This is the real power of the network: not just connections, but confidence. Confidence to bring... On Thursday 2nd October, business networking organisation Opendoorz will officially launch its new Gloucestershire Region at the newly refurbished Kings Head Hotel, seamlessly aligning with the hotel’s “New Reign” campaign. This partnership signals a fresh era for business professionals in the region where tradition meets transformation, and networking is redefined. Founded in Oxfordshire in 2011, Opendoorz has grown into one of the region’s most respected business networking organisations. Built on the principles of relationship-first connections, strategic collaboration, and peer-to-peer support, Opendoorz has been challenging the conventions of traditional networking for over a decade. The Gloucestershire Region launch marks the organisation’s fourth group, expanding opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs, senior decision-makers, and business leaders to connect in a high-quality, supportive environment. The Kings Head Hotel a Cirencester landmark with centuries of history has recently undergone what it describes as “a quiet revolution. ” Its New Reign campaign represents the hotel’s renewed role as a centre for community, connection, and celebration. With its refined yet relaxed spaces, the Kings Head offers the perfect setting for Opendoorz’ ‘Networking Done Differently’ a natural fit between a venue steeped in heritage and a network that thrives on innovation. “At Opendoorz, we’re about more than just networking—we’re about building trusted relationships that open doors to opportunities,” said Cathy Dunbabin, Founder and MD of Opendoorz. “Launching our Gloucestershire Region at the Kings Head, with its own story of renewal and reignition, feels like the ideal way to celebrate what’s possible when ambitious professionals come together. ” The Gloucestershire... Meetings held and the recently refurbished Kings Head Hotel. Our Cirencester group meet at the newly refurbished Kings Head Hotel. As part of the Honeycomb Houses group, they have a simple philosophy. It’s Our House, Your Home... They treat their colleagues like family, guests as friends & the pubs like homes. The Kings Head is one of 12 individually styled houses. All of the sites sit as they should, nestled in the towns and villages that surround them, each with their own personality, yet with similar traits that simply run in the family. Our Cirencester group meet twice a month, with one member’s meeting on the first Thursday of the month and then a guest event which take place on the third Thursday of the month. This is a great way to build a professional business network of trusted suppliers, strategic partners and potentially introducers of business. We can promise great tea and cake, in beautifully designed spaces full of character, comfort and charm. Please get in touch if you’d like to come along. Our local groups are putting community spirit into action with a fantastic line-up of charity events this season all in support of great local causes. From four-legged fun to high-speed thrills, there’s something for everyone to enjoy while making a real difference. Saturday 23 August Openpawz! – Dog Show and Family Day Join our North Oxford group at Banbury Rugby Club for some family fun and dog competitions - from Best Trick to Waggiest Tail, there's a category for every canine companion, plus an agility course too. You’ll also find local stalls, food vans, and plenty of chances to support Sobell House Hospice with a raffle and tombola. Sponsored by Urban Element and Hazlo Fire & Security Contact: Jon Ellard & Oya Emir-Wilson Friday 19 September Charity Golf Day Whether you're a seasoned golfer or a complete beginner, you're invited to join our Henley group at The Caversham Golf Club for a day of friendly competition. Expect good company, a few laughs, and the chance to support One-Eighty while enjoying great facilities. There’s something for everyone. including non-golfers who can get involved as caddies on the day! Contact: Warren Kerley Sunday 21 September Autumn Fashion Show Spend your Sunday afternoon at The Theatre in Chipping Norton, alongside members of our North Cotswold group, and discover the latest in autumn-winter fashion while supporting the local theatre. Browse collections, get styling advice, and enjoy the runway shows in a relaxed atmosphere. With a charity auction and a bar on hand, it’s the... We are delighted to share some fantastic news from the gardening world. Mimosa Garden Design has been awarded GOLD at BBC Gardeners’ World Live for their impressive “New Build Garden” project. Led by Lucie and Henry Ponsford, the design tackled real-world challenges head-on and earned high praise from the judges for its strong “street appeal. ” At its centre is a striking stepped water feature that functions as an attenuation tank. It pumps aerated water from downpipes to create a natural reservoir for homeowners. This feature manages rainwater effectively and reduces flood risk. It is an important innovation for building in Flood Zone 3 areas, which face a high probability of flooding and require careful planning and mitigation. The garden also addresses a significant waste problem in construction. Instead of sending subsoil to landfill, which accounts for up to 60 percent of landfill volume, the team packed it into gabions. This approach creates instant structure and vertical growing space, diverts tons of earth from waste sites, and enhances the garden’s aesthetic appeal. The planting scheme broke with tradition by using grasses creatively and integrating lawn and meadow turf within the gabions to promote biodiversity. Visitors were especially impressed by the varied trees and planting, all of which reflect the passion and innovation at the heart of the design. The project was also a showcase of effective collaboration: Hot Tubs Oxfordshire, Hutsmith, and artist-in-residence Jayne Emerson contributed their expertise to bring the vision to life. Lucie Ponsford commented: “We are thrilled... Who knew a sunny afternoon on the Thames, a cheeky bit of ‘kidnapping’, and a punt or two could be the secret sauce to building serious business relationships? That’s exactly what happened when 60 Opendoorz members from 11 different groups came together in Oxford for an unforgettable event—equal parts relaxing, surprising, and wonderfully productive. The premise was simple (well, sort of): arrive, set off down the river on a traditional Oxford punt with a mix of fellow Opendoorz member. Then a select few be ‘kidnapped’ (yes, really), and make the return journey with a different mix of fellow members. The result? An atmosphere so relaxed and enjoyable, even the most serious professionals let their guard down, and genuine connections flourished. As Kathryn Fell delightfully put it: “Great event, thank you. I enjoyed being ‘kidnapped’ too. Very pleasant experience Not a sentence I ever thought I’d say A fun way with some trivia in solving who the other member was, & then getting a chance to have conversations with other fellow ‘punters & members’. Well done team HQ x” It turns out being gently whisked away onto the water is quite the icebreaker. Along the tranquil journey, members solved light-hearted riddles to guess who they were paired with, shared stories, swapped ideas, and laid the foundations for future collaborations—all without a flipchart or name badge in sight. Julie Ann Burger shared her experience: “Thank you for arranging such a lovely event yesterday. Really enjoyed the outing on the river and it... What a night! The Oxfordshire Business Awards rolled around again last week, and honestly, we couldn't be prouder of how our Opendoorz members performed. The county's biggest business celebration delivered as always, but this year felt extra special with so many familiar faces taking home the silverware. Ben Thompson from Thompson & Terry Recruitment absolutely smashed it, winning SME of the Year. Anyone who knows Ben won't be surprised - he's incredible when it comes to client relationships and just gets how to build a proper business. So well deserved! GHM Communications and Neil McManus picked up Large Business of the Year, which is brilliant news. They've been pushing boundaries in business communications for years now, so it's great to see them get the recognition they deserve. But the real standout moment? Susie Besant and the One Eighty team took home not one but TWO awards - Employer of the Year AND Business of the Year. As our Henley group's chosen charity, we've seen firsthand the incredible work they do with young people. The standing ovation was completely justified. Plenty of other Opendoorz members were in the running too. Ben Thompson actually made it as a finalist in another category (showing off now! ), Oxford United in the Community got their nod for the amazing community work they do, and Blue Blood were finalists for their creative work. Big shout to Vinny Kumar from Cherry Picked Residential as well - not only was he there supporting everyone, but he sponsored... Well, they do say time flies when you’re having fun, and I honestly can’t quite believe how quickly the past three months have disappeared since the changes within Opendoorz... Well, they do say time flies when you’re having fun, and I honestly can’t quite believe how quickly the past three months have disappeared since the changes within Opendoorz. It’s been a whirlwind, to say the least, and not without its challenges, but what a learning curve it has been. I’ll admit, after 14 years when the dynamic shifts, it’s natural to feel a sense of unease, and I’d be lying if I said it didn’t take me a while to find my footing. The start of the year also brought with it some unresolved issues from 2024 and tackling those felt daunting. That said, Kate and Caroline have been nothing short of a breath of fresh air. Their drive, energy, and unwavering commitment to our shared goals have reinvigorated the office atmosphere in ways I couldn’t have anticipated. The positivity is palpable, and we’ve hit the ground running with a determination that is both inspiring and contagious. There’s a saying that three’s a crowd, but in my case, moving from one business partner to two has brought a new layer of structure and professionalism to how we operate. Each of us has clearly defined roles and objectives, ensuring no duplication of efforts and enabling us to focus on our individual strengths. The addition of more minds in the mix has sparked creativity and innovation, and we’re learning how to navigate discussions so that everyone’s voice is heard. Operating as a consultative team has brought real accountability to our decisions,... At Opendoorz, we believe that business growth starts with genuine relationships- and Helen Parsons of Helen Parsons Garden Design exemplifies what’s possible when you embrace connection, curiosity, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. At Opendoorz, we believe that business growth starts with genuine relationships- and Helen Parsons of Helen Parsons Garden Design exemplifies what’s possible when you embrace connection, curiosity, and a willingness to step outside your comfort zone. We recently caught up with Helen to hear about her experience as a member of the Wallingford Group and the incredible impact networking has had on her business and beyond. Meet Helen Parsons Helen is a talented garden designer who has built her business on word-of-mouth recommendations. As she looked to pivot into a more specialized niche; helping homeowners building, renovating, or extending their homes— she realized she needed something more. A stronger network of professionals in the residential construction industry, especially architects who understand and value the role of landscape design. Feeling isolated as a micro-business owner, Helen decided to take a leap into the world of networking - despite her initial nerves. “I was a complete newbie to networking. In fact, I hadn't even considered it before. When I got invited to a meeting, I went simply because the idea scared me - so I had to do it! I ended up really enjoying it. ” An inspiring conversation over drinks after that first meeting gave Helen the confidence to dive in, and when the opportunity arose to help build a new Opendoorz group, she jumped at it. Setting Goals and Stepping Up Helen was clear from the start: if she was going to invest time and money, she needed to commit... At Opendoorz, we’re all about meaningful connections, and few embody that spirit better than Ben Thompson, founder of Thompson & Terry Recruitment and a dynamic voice in the business world. We recently sat down with Ben to learn more about his journey, his motivations, and why he’s found his place in the Opendoorz community. At Opendoorz, we’re all about meaningful connections, and few embody that spirit better than Ben Thompson, founder of Thompson & Terry Recruitment and a dynamic voice in the business world. We recently sat down with Ben to learn more about his journey, his motivations, and why he’s found his place in the Opendoorz community. Meet Ben Thompson Since founding Thompson & Terry Recruitment back in 2014, Ben has made it his mission to help businesses, from global corporations to local charities - attract, recruit, and retain top-tier talent. Based in Abingdon, his agency takes a unique headhunting approach to standard recruitment vacancies, boasting an incredible 86. 4% success rate for first CV submissions last year. That’s compared to the national average of just 5%. Beyond his agency, Ben is a passionate mentor to recruitment agency owners, HR professionals, and hiring managers. He’s also the host of The Business Brunch with Ben Thompson on Get Radio, where he shares insights and stories from across the business spectrum. Now, with exciting plans to launch an Executive Search and Biotech Division, it’s clear Ben is just getting started. Why Opendoorz? After stepping back from his own networking business, Ben found himself missing the buzz and depth of relationship-building that networking brings. “Having built my business almost entirely through networking, I really missed it,” he says. “I wanted to join a group focused on real relationships and growing together - which made Opendoorz the obvious choice. I’m so glad I did! ” A Focus... At Opendoorz, we believe in the power of collaboration, connections, and leadership. As we continue to grow and expand our services, we are thrilled to introduce 2 new Associate Directors to our established team who are here to bring their unique talents, experience, and vision to our organisation. At Opendoorz, we believe in the power of collaboration, connections, and leadership. As we continue to grow and expand our services, we are thrilled to introduce 2 new Associate Directors to our established team who are here to bring their unique talents, experience, and vision to our organisation. Each individual brings something special to the table, helping us strengthen our internal operations and improve the experiences we offer our members. We’d like to take a moment to spotlight all outstanding AD's and the value they add for our members. 1. Phil Saville – Associate Director for Trinity and Wallingford Since joining the Opendoorz family a decade ago, Phil has grown from dedicated member to Associate Director of two groups, Trinity and Wallingford. He creates a supportive and collaborative environment where business professionals can connect, share ideas, and grow their enterprises. Phil is known for his ability to foster meaningful connections and facilitate opportunities for members to develop valuable business contacts. Outside of Opendoorz, Phil enjoys cooking, running, and relaxing with a glass of wine while listening to 80’s pop music – and occasionally dancing to it! ! 2. Jon Ellard - Associate Director for North Oxford Jon Ellard is an experienced connector and seasoned networker with a passion for helping others achieve tangible results. Known for his role in pro-actively expanding the North Oxford Group, Jon combines camaraderie with strategy, ensuring each member gains real ROI. He thrives on strategic conversations, from how to price to the best ways to... At Opendoorz we have made it a priority to give back to our local communities. In 2024 rather than having one Charity of the year, each of our 11 groups choose their own. Supporting local charities isn’t just a way to contribute to a cause; it’s an essential part of how we strengthen the connections between our businesses and the places where we operate. We believe that when businesses engage with their communities, everyone benefits. One of the greatest advantages for our members is the opportunity to actively participate in charity work that goes beyond just fundraising. Our members regularly provide valuable services that help these charities thrive. With a diverse membership of business owners from various sectors, they offer a range of support, including awareness of the charity and even pro bono or reduced-cost services in areas such as marketing, legal advice, and financial consulting. Being able to attend our guest events each month our COTY fund raisers get to develop their skills in promoting the work of the charity and relationship engagement. This kind of involvement not only helps the charities but also enriches our members' businesses. By contributing to meaningful causes, our members gain visibility within their communities, develop stronger relationships, and demonstrate their commitment to social responsibility. These interactions foster a sense of shared purpose, which can inspire innovation and collaboration across different industries. Our collective approach ensures that charities don’t just receive financial aid; they gain access to tools and expertise that can drive long-term... The development of strategic partners and good reliable introducers has been incredibly rewarding Why Business Networking The Sandler business ethos is to work with their clients to develop and sustain long term business growth. In order to achieve this, business relationships need to be nurtured and continually developed. Networking has always been one of our top three marketing activities that continually brings in new business opportunities. Why Opendoorz Having always invested time and effort in networking it was important that Sandler found the right networking group. Historically they have always found there to be two types of groups, one for small micro businesses and business start-ups, the other for large corporations where the events are full of Managers that have no purchasing power and are simply focused on sell, sell, sell. We have been to many business networking events and have always struggled with the calibre or attendees, however this all changed when we first experienced Opendoorz. It was like experiencing a first clear breath of fresh air. The ability to be in the same room with like-minded business owners all of whom have the same outlook was priceless. The Opendoorz Approach A good networking group is one where the founders are proactively supporting their members to hit their individual business goals. The Opendoorz team are incredibly knowledgeable and are focussed on ensuring all of the Opendoorz members are committed to achieving success for the whole group. You cannot just turn up to a meeting and expect everything to fall into place, Opendoorz is so much more than just monthly meetings. You must... Entering your business into local and national awards can bring a wealth of benefits. First and foremost, it’s a fantastic morale booster for your team. Being recognised for your hard work and achievements validates the effort everyone has put into the business, creating a shared sense of pride and motivation. From a client’s perspective, awards signal credibility and excellence. Winning or being shortlisted showcases your expertise and commitment to high standards, which builds trust and strengthens client relationships. Awards also offer unmatched opportunities to raise your brand’s profile. The publicity from being a finalist or winner can amplify your PR efforts, ensuring your business stands out in a competitive marketplace. With increased visibility, your brand becomes synonymous with success, fostering recognition that resonates with potential clients and partners alike. At Opendoorz, we couldn’t be prouder of our members who have reached the finals or have taken home prestigious awards in 2024. Their accomplishments highlight the calibre of our community, showcasing the incredible experience, innovation, and leadership that define our members. These successes inspire us and reinforce our commitment to connecting and empowering remarkable business leaders. Below, are just some of our members who’ve celebrated award wins or nominations. Each story is a testament to their hard work, vision, and the significant impact their businesses make in their industries. Discover the awards they’ve won, the recognition they’ve earned, and the value these accolades bring to their brands. Oxford group member, Vinny Kumar of Cherrypicked Residential was awarded Top Agent in the... It’s like a light bulb moment of how your services can help solve a problem. Why Business Networking Business networking was first introduced to me at the inception of Pebble Marketing, and although daunting at first, I began to realise the power of connecting with businesses. Networking needs to be embedded into your marketing plan. Having been to various networking groups over the last 19 years, it took me a while to find a group that was the right fit – that understood me, the business, yet gave me a warm welcome and put me at ease at every meeting. Opendoorz ticked the boxes, confidence to be yourself, space and support to grow. People buy people, right? Why Opendoorz Having the pier support and belief in you to grow is astronomical. We all have pitfalls or obstacles in our business journey, and with the Open Forum, we can share that in a safe space that enables other members to provide their wisdom and experience. That is priceless. Opendoorz core values resonated with me immediately, from bringing out the best in everyone, mutual respect, energy & motivation to fun. It’s more than your little black book of contacts for the members who have referred you. The Opendoorz Approach Cultivating and nurturing relationships is key in a mature and gown-up environment. The format and KPI’s is set for a reason, to support your personal and professional development. The team are eager to see you grow and flourish. Trust the process. Have your insights, create new opportunities for fellow members and if there is a need, give the... Other members not only using our Recruitment services for their own companies, but also making introductions to some of their contacts. Why Business Networking This was a new concept to Parke Lane People back in 2022 when we signed up to Opendoorz, with the aim of being better connected and in a pier group that can share ideas and best practices. As a sole business owner, it can be lonely with no one to bounce ideas off, share challenges, so I felt I could learn from those more experienced than me to help me grow. Lastly, it was advised to me as a useful marketing strategy, to make potential introductions once relationships and trust was built. Why Opendoorz I was made aware of Opendoorz by a couple of members I knew and invited to come along as a guest. Having tried a couple of other forms of networking and decided they weren’t for me; I liked the feel of Opendoorz and the fit felt right with the team comradery. The values were aligned with mine and the balance of meeting every two weeks was just right. There is a good balance of both business sizes across the group, ranging from one-man bands to companies of 50+ and most importantly, all the members are well connected with a common goal – wanting to see other small businesses succeed. The Opendoorz Approach From experiencing other networking groups and picking up on what a large number of our guests say, Opendoorz is far more structured, insightful genuine and fun. There’s a level of commitment in place that’s proven to get results, and is heavily... Practicing talking about my business, practicing presenting and speaking and getting valuable feedback and insight from other members have accelerated our growth and credibility. Why Business Networking Habitat+ Architects is built around generating a personal service with our clients, providing the human connections of trust, empathy and understanding. Business networking can be a great way to meet likeminded people with whom we share values, which ultimately may lead into mutual opportunities. In truth I’ve always seen it as a necessary evil until my first Opendoorz meeting where I saw it in a whole new light. Why Opendoorz I’ve found that Opendoorz is a group which embodies the very qualities which most value throughout its membership. Therefore, not only do I benefit from relevant personal growth and development, but the connections I make fundamentally without exception embody these likeminded qualities. The Opendoorz Approach The Opendoorz approach of structured meetings and insights has been proven to be effective. But I’d probably more emphasise that it puts the fun into networking. No longer is networking walking into an intimidating room and trying to speak to someone who might be a good connection but probably isn’t. From the very first moment I came to Opendoorz as a guest I was treated as a respected equal and that comradery was one of my main reasons to join. The Results I always quantify my benefits from Opendoorz in three ways. Firstly, but by no means the most important is business gained. Through directly working for other companies in Opendoorz, and to other via introductions made we’ve generated business which is easily five or six times the membership fee. Secondly are... In today’s fast-paced world, change has become an inevitable part of business life. From shifting market trends and evolving consumer preferences to advances in technology, change is everywhere. While change can sometimes seem intimidating or unsettling, the truth is that it is essential for the long-term growth and success of any organisation. Embracing change can lead to innovation, better customer service, and a more resilient business model. At Opendoorz we have always been brave enough to implement change – we are agile and always hold our Values at the core of any decisions we make... Let’s explore why change is not just good for business but essential for it to thrive. Innovation Breeds Success Change is the driving force behind innovation. The businesses that adapt, experiment, and seek new ways to improve are often the ones that stay ahead of the competition. Without change, there would be no new products, no enhanced services, and no fresh ideas. Just think about the tech giants of the past few decades—companies like Apple, Google, and Amazon—that have continuously adapted to shifting market conditions and technological advancements. Every product launch or service upgrade was a result of their willingness to change, try new things, and take risks. Incorporating change encourages businesses to think creatively. It fosters a culture where employees feel empowered to share ideas and challenge the status quo. This kind of environment sparks innovation, which is crucial for staying relevant in today’s fast-moving world. Improved Customer Experience Businesses need to keep pace... At Opendoorz, our vision, mission, and values are more than just statements; they are the guiding principles that inspire our actions, inform our decisions, and foster trust within our community. Together, they propel our growth, enable our success, and shape a vibrant culture for our team and members. Our Vision We aspire to be the leading business networking group of choice for inspirational business owners, partners, and directors. Our vision drives us to create an environment where creativity and collaboration thrive. Our Mission Our mission is to cultivate unique, vibrant, and educational experiences within each Opendoorz group. We strive to provide a space where long-term, trusted relationships can be forged, nurtured, and allowed to flourish. Our Values Never Compromise We believe that success is rooted in the quality of our members and the connections they create. Every new member is carefully selected for the value they bring to our community, enhancing the opportunities available to all. Bringing Out the Best in Everyone We foster a supportive yet challenging environment that encourages both personal and professional growth. Through education, idea sharing, constructive feedback, and active participation, we empower our members to reach their full potential. Respect Respect is fundamental in business. By cultivating credibility and fostering collaboration, we create an atmosphere of trust. This approach opens doors to new opportunities, strengthens relationships, minimizes conflicts, and enhances overall success. Having a ‘Grown-Up’ Approach We value high regard and courtesy in our interactions. By treating others with respect, we nurture flourishing relationships without... In the fast-paced world of business, challenges are inevitable. From unexpected project roadblocks to sourcing the right expertise, the ability to solve problems swiftly can make all the difference. But what if you could resolve any issue with just two phone calls? At Opendoorz, we believe that with the right network, you’re never more than two calls away from a solution. This concept isn't just a theory; it's a reality that our members experience regularly. First-hand Success: Kate Cooper’s Story To illustrate the power of a well-connected network, let's delve into the experience of Kate Cooper, a member of Opendoorz and owner of Absolute Architecture. Before leaving for a well-deserved holiday, Kate asked her team about any challenges they were facing with ongoing projects. This simple inquiry opened the door to several opportunities, all resolved with just a couple of phone calls. A New Project with a Quick Turnaround Kate received a new inquiry where the clients needed quick renovations to meet mortgage lending conditions. Rather than scrambling for a solution, Kate made two quick calls to fellow Opendoorz members, Chris Creak and Paddy Daly, both experienced builders. Both were ready and able to step in, ensuring the project moved forward seamlessly. Specialized Expertise for a Unique Requirement One of Kate’s team members, Ben, needed a swimming pool restorer, a niche service not easy to find. Through her network, Kate connected him with Clearwater Pools, a Wallingford guest who was thrilled to get the call and assist with the project.... Have you ever given thought to what the myths are around your business? What are the worries associated with your industry? They will be there and to be honest they’re usually pretty ugly! So how do we debunk those myths - show the truth. The truth about us and how OUR business rolls. Firstly understanding what those worries are is essential... When thinking about potential clients do you have a clear understanding of what they ACTUALLY WANT to KNOW about your industry, your company, your service? And are you AWARE of their FRUSTRATIONS and CONCERNS when thinking of engaging your industries services– believe me there will always be two horror stories to every good one! And we all know which gets shouted about the loudest... If you know these you can incorporate them into your Marketing, your S Media, Pitches & Presentations. So how do we determine what these myths are? Poll your clients – just ask them. Why do they use (and love) you more than a another/competitor? Ask your contacts and connections to tell you honestly what their fears are when using your industry. Your suppliers, anyone you trust in business... Be aware of recent public opinion whether in the press, on TV or being addressed on social media Finally just ask friends, family – they’ll be brutal! Create a list... By knowing what people want to know and what drives them mad means that you can build these into your pitch for business – you can overcome... Our Associate Director Jon Ellard gives a brief glimpse of how his brain works… Our Associate Director Jon Ellard gives a brief glimpse of how his brain works... I joined Opendoorz in 2015, when it was just 3 groups and 45 members. Since then, the number of groups and members has grown significantly, now boasting 11 groups and over 150 members. Despite this growth, the strategy and values that first attracted me to Opendoorz have remained consistent. Opendoorz believes emphatically that a powerful professional network is integral to business growth and development. Here's a brief overview of the core components, with full details at the end of this post: Their Strategy Building strong and meaningful relationships with quality businesses to foster business growth and development. Their Vision To be the business networking group of choice for inspirational business owners, partners, and directors. So members will be in the right room, making the right contacts and connections to support and grow their business. Their Mission Each Opendoorz group provides a unique, vibrant, educational, and fun environment where long-term, trusted relationships are forged, developed, and thrive. Members are surrounded by aspirational, motivated people who are willing and able to share their expertise and experience. Core Values Never Compromise Bringing out the Best in Everyone Having a ‘Grown Up’ Approach Energise and Motivate Generosity of Spirit Fun For a detailed explanation of each value, please see the end of this post. Now, back to me and Opendoorz. I have always taken networking seriously, and for me, there has to be a strong ROI. My best year to... Being a small business owner is like riding a seesaw — thrilling highs followed by stomach flipping lows, all while trying to maintain balance. You’re spinning most of the plates, experiencing the exhilaration of independence alongside the weight of isolation that comes with being the boss... Being a small business owner is like riding a seesaw — thrilling highs followed by stomach flipping lows, all while trying to maintain balance. You’re spinning most of the plates, experiencing the exhilaration of independence alongside the weight of isolation that comes with being the boss. But what if the solution to some of these challenges lies in the very people you see as competition? I joined a group of business owners back in January 2023. As part of Opendoorz we founded a group based in Cheltenham. Part of the benefit of belonging to Opendoorz was that I could also meet with members from other groups... so suddenly my connections expanded from Cheltenham to over 140 fellow businesses – businesses that I already knew were culturally aligned and understood how to support fellow members. So why did I prioritise meeting those in the same field as my business... let me tell you what my questions were for them... How they made it work in their group – how did they establish and differentiate themselves in our profession? Who had become their best referrers – were there particular industries/sectors that had hit the mark? Could these be potential areas to seek members for our Cheltenham group? What had gone wrong – was there anything they had tried that didn’t work out or they would have done differently? What could I learn from them? Shortly after one of these meetings, I joined forces with fellow member David Haimes. His team were just... When running your business how often do you wish you could discuss a challenge with other business owners to see if they have had the same or similar issue in there business and how they approached it... When running your business how often do you wish you could discuss a challenge with other business owners to see if they have had the same or similar issue in there business and how they approached it. Well, in Opendoorz this is something that we tackle at all our meetings through a section of the meetings we call our OPEN FORUM. As each meeting is a trusted and supportive environment for our members it is a safe place to honestly open up about the challenges we all face in running our businesses. One of our members, or on many occasions our guests, will bring a challenging topic within their business to the table and seek the advice and opinions of our members to help get a handle on what to do next. Because lets face it, we have all had challenges in running our businesses we wish we could have shared with other business owners who may have tackled it before and found a working resolution. As no business owner can know everything, about everything, this opportunity to seek trusted and valued experiences and solutions is just one of the reason our members love Opendoorz and the value it brings. With a wealth of business experience in such diverse sectors of the business market there is always an answer waiting to help us tackle the challenge. So when you next say “I HAVE A QUESTION” why not touch base with us here at Opendoorz and receive you own personal invite... We can all blow our own trumpets but there’s nothing better than hearing the GREAT stuff from someone else. Andy Parke is a member of our North Oxford Group is positively glowing about how Opendoorz has worked for him and his business… We can all blow our own trumpets but there’s nothing better than hearing the GREAT stuff from someone else. Andy Parke is a member of our North Oxford Group is positively glowing about how Opendoorz has worked for him and his business... “In January 2023, Parke Lane People made the strategic decision to join and invest in Opendoorz. Now, 14 months down the line, we find ourselves reflecting on the journey thus far and its profound impact on our business and founder, Andy Parke. What does Opendoorz stand for? Opendoorz stands firmly behind the belief that a robust network is essential for business growth and development. Their ethos revolves around fostering strong and meaningful relationships with high-quality businesses. With a network of friendly, dedicated, and motivated professionals spread across Oxfordshire and surrounding counties, Opendoorz emphasizes the values of sharing, connecting, and growing together—all while enjoying the process. Currently boasting 11 groups and 150 members, Opendoorz provides a platform for like-minded individuals to converge and thrive. Why did we join? There were several compelling reasons why we decided to become part of Opendoorz: Brand Awareness: Establishing a strong presence for the Parke Lane People brand in Oxfordshire and Buckinghamshire was paramount. Joining the leading networking group in Oxfordshire was a strategic move to enhance our visibility in the region. By aligning ourselves with Opendoorz, we aimed to leverage their reputation and network to increase brand recognition and market penetration. Trusted Advisors: Building trust takes time, but engaging with fellow members who... This year we've chosen some phenomenal charities to become our charity partners for 2024. Each of our groups have chosen a local charity close to their hearts… This year we've chosen some phenomenal charities to become our charity partners for 2024. Each of our groups have chosen a local charity close to their hearts... We very much look forward to welcoming them at Guest Events and working with them to offer business support and advice alongside some fundraising initiatives too... Let’s kick start with a SAVE the DATE; We’re organising a HUGE charity event on the 11th September that will engage all our members and our charities in a shared experience whether participating or cheering on fellow colleagues – it’s HOT of the press as we announce our FIREWALK! Find and fight your fears, build resilience, push boundaries, all through walking barefoot over a bed of hot embers... yikes! We’re sure it’s definitely in line with our Value Generosity of Spirit; Being mindful, making the time and proactively supporting others through connections, introductions and collaborations. Being active members of the business arena and supporting local charities. ? ? ? ? We look forward to an afternoon of heated collaboration, support, a few laughs and lots of cold water! ! So apart from our brave and slightly bonkers members who are the charities that will be joining us? Cheltenham – The Spring Centre www. springcentre. org Cotswolds - Homeless Oxfordshire www. homelessoxfordshire. uk Frilford – Oxford United in the Community www. ouitc. org North Oxford – Oxfordshire Mind www. oxfordshiremind. org. uk North Cotswolds – Chipping Norton Theatre www. chippingnortontheatre. comT Thame - Red Kite www. redkitefamilycentre. org... Are you hoping your next networking meeting will be the one? But you seem to be collecting lots of business cards and not making the connections that matter? Are you getting tired of shallow introductions and soulless networking events? Are you hoping your next networking meeting will be the one? But you seem to be collecting lots of business cards and not making the connections that matter? Are you getting tired of shallow introductions and soulless networking events? The Associate Director of our North Cotswolds group, Clayton Manley, has some words of wisdom for you: Stop networking and start building! Build genuine longstanding relationships Build a community of like-minded business owners who share your values Build knowledge and skills that create value for your business and others. When you focus on building, you grow a valuable network and your business grows with you. Come along to an Opendoorz meeting and start building something truly meaningful. Established 13 years. 12 groups. 150+ members. 300+ events per year. 1,000+ education sessions per year. 2,500+ one on one meetings per year. Over £2million of business shared per year! As as Associate Director, I have seen first-hand how when the foundations are strong the building develops fast, is durable and a thing of beauty! Come and start your journey by joining us as a guest – just drop me a message... #businessnetworking #businessrelationships #NorthCotswolds Wow! What a year 2023 was, and we can proudly say a whopping £2,827,431 worth of business was received by Opendoorz members last year! Wow! What a year 2023 was, and we can proudly say a whopping £2,827,431 worth of business was received by Opendoorz members last year! We also raised £24,110 for our 2023 chosen charity of the year Oxfordshire Mind. Our feet are now firmly in 2024 and how we can make this our best year yet... Reflecting on their first Opendoorz North Oxford meeting of the year, our Associate Director, Jon Ellard summarises the approach they took in the first meeting of the new year. "Last week, our focus was on setting the groundwork for the year ahead. We used our regular Continuous Professional Development (CPD) session to chat about our individual business goals. From there, we discussed budgeting for sales and marketing to meet the financial and sales targets set by some members. Interestingly, and not surprisingly, many members highlighted the significant role of Opendoorz opportunities and referrals in achieving their targets. We also took a moment to outline our group goals for the year: 1 Group Growth: Aim to hit 20 members by the end of March 2024 and 30 members by the end of June 2024. 2 £750,000 Business Passed Around: A collective target to keep the group thriving. 3 Member Involvement: Each member commits to inviting 4 guests per year. It was a positive start to the year" Thank you, Jon, for sharing and we are delighted to say that there are a few open seats in many of our networking groups. However, next time when we... In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of business and professional development, continuous learning is the key to staying ahead of the curve. Unlocking Your Success Through Opendoorz CPD sessions In the dynamic and ever-evolving landscape of business and professional development, continuous learning is the key to staying ahead of the curve. Opendoorz recognizes this need and has taken it a step further by offering a range of insightful and transformative CPD (Continuing Professional Development) sessions. We run these sessions to provide a supportive community to share knowledge and experiences. In this blog, I’ll explore the world of Opendoorz CPD sessions, uncovering the benefits and the opportunities they offer for personal and professional growth. What is Opendoorz? Opendoorz is a networking and professional development community that connects professionals from diverse industries. It provides a space for individuals to share their expertise, learn from others, and grow their network and business. Opendoorz is not just a networking group; it's a community of like-minded individuals striving for success in their respective fields. The Power of CPD Sessions: Opendoorz's CPD sessions are a vital component of our meeting agenda which we hold 2 a month. These sessions are designed to cater to the diverse needs and interests of Opendoorz members (and guests at our monthly guest events). Here's what makes them so special: Diverse Range of Topics: Opendoorz CPD sessions cover a wide array of topics, from leadership and management to personal development and industry-specific skills. Whether you're an entrepreneur looking to refine your business strategy or a professional aiming to enhance your leadership skills, there's something for everyone. Expert-Led Sessions: The sessions are led by... How many times has a conversation sparked some great creative thoughts? How many times has a conversation sparked some great creative thoughts? As a member of Opendoorz I find I have some of my best ideas watching the showcases of my fellow networkers. Seeing how they manage and run their businesses, the different areas that they cover, the different types of clients that they work with, and how they approach challenges is inspiring, motivating, and energising. In the Oxford Group, three members have taken this one step further. Ben Gardener was doing a showcase (an opportunity to share information about his business) and he talked about The Environment Act was going to impact his industry. This legislation was going to create change, challenge, and opportunities. Two other group members also saw the potential of this opportunity. They turned an industry challenge into a new business venture. Civity was formed bringing together expertise in Ecology, Land Management and Finance to provide a ‘one-stop shop’ solution for Developers who need to offset their biodiversity impacts and Landowners who want to use part of their land to benefit biodiversity. David Haines and Sam Farmer both have a range of business and financial knowledge, awareness and understanding of how to build businesses. And together, combined with Ben’s deep knowledge of the ecology sector translate into a business that answers some challenges created by the new legislation. The extra bonus? These three have set up this new business from scratch and Ben told me what made this new business such an easy decision was the strength... Surely not, but how do we squeeze personal and professional development into a working week when we’re already time poor and wearing about 3 million hats. Surely not, but how do we squeeze personal and professional development into a working week when we’re already time poor and wearing about 3 million hats. It will come as no surprise that I am not an academic and formal training (visual thinker here), which in my mind conjures images of sitting with a huge about of text to consume and then assays of work to produce is not my idea of fun. BUT I LOVE TO LEARN Well, I found my fix about 12 years ago when I first joined Opendoorz. As most I can’t say I joined Opendoorz because I wanted to learn. At the end of the day, it was about business growth, referral partnerships and revenue. But from the outset and still today, I absolutely love my biweekly fix of learning. I think some of the most powerful things you can learn in business and life is from others. So, when we meet, we get to share knowledge and gain insight from each other. So many different experts in the room, with so many different life experiences. There is always something to take away and I often find the next day or over the course of the weekend I reflect and review that take away against my own business or personal situation. I can’t calculate it in pounds and pence, but the value is immense for me. I know this is only one of the many benefits of being a member of Opendoorz, but I extend... Want to know how to be an award winning business owner? Look after those who help you grow... We often talk about building and maintaining relationships with clients (and other Opendoorz members), but what about maintaining relationships with your suppliers? Opendoorz would not be able to function without the suppliers we use, as is likely to be the case for many of your businesses. So, it’s vital we support the businesses we spend our money with and make sure we show them our loyalty and how much we value them. Here are our 5 top tips for maintaining professional relationships that keep the business flowing. Show a little empathy Be tolerant of the pressure, anxiety and fear others feel and before you react to mistakes - ask yourself if this is out of the ordinary. Cutting a little slack occasionally will be hugely appreciated and will, no doubt, be repaid going forward. Pay your invoices on time Cash flow can make or break small businesses. Ok, so you might be trying to conserve your coffers too but consider what the impact will be to your business if a supplier you rely on goes under? Pay your suppliers on time and keep the good karma going. Use their expertise We use suppliers because they are experts in their field. Make use of that knowledge and experience by discussing issues with them. Don’t shy away from difficult conversations Sometimes, there is no choice but to cut back on spending. Our advice is not to avoid having that conversation with your supplier. There may be a solution, a temporary way to... The Opendoorz ultimate guide to building great networking relationships. Opendoorz Directors, Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns, share the big lessons they’ve learned about how to build long-lasting, effective professional relationships. The Opendoorz ultimate guide to building great networking relationships. Opendoorz Directors, Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns, share the big lessons they’ve learned about how to build long-lasting, effective professional relationships. Now it doesn’t take a rocket scientist to understand that networking is all about relationships. But relationships are complex things and getting them right can be tricky. Over the course of our careers, we’ve seen the huge benefits that having a strong professional network can bring (we’ve also seen some spectacular fails, but we’ll save those stories for the bar! ) We’ve honed these experiences to help us create the optimum professional networking model in Opendoorz. At its core, Opendoorz is a platform for facilitating members to develop their professional relationships and really get to know each other. One on one insight meetings, showcases, continuous professional development sessions and creating a trusted space for open and honest discussion are all part of the regular structure and is one of the reasons are members stay with us for such a long time. With twelve groups across Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire, and Berkshire and more than 150 business owner or director-level members, we can confidently say we know a thing or two about how to develop great professional relationships! We’ve put together the Opendoorz ultimate guide to developing great networking relationships. A systematic approach works best Take it from us there is no way you can maintain long-term, close professional relationships with everyone you meet. Although it might sound a bit harsh, you need... The Pet Shop Boys said ‘Go West’ so we did and now Cheltenham is buzzing with the Opendoorz winning formula for professional networking. The Pet Shop Boys said ‘Go West’ so we did and now Cheltenham is buzzing with the Opendoorz winning formula for professional networking. Networking works – fact. If you don’t believe me, try these facts on for size. In the last year, Opendoorz members passed in excess of £2 million worth of business between them. We’ve done the calculations and it works out that’s an average ROI of more than 500% on membership costs. Still need convincing? ! Well, on top of the cold, hard cash in your pocket, there’s the wider benefits to you from being part of a community of highly experienced and diverse business leaders. Our members come from all sectors and professions, meaning you have a network of serious professionals in your contacts list all willing to generously share their knowledge and expertise. Finally (and because good reasons always come in threes), there’s the fact that our members benefit from a level of personal development that’s largely unprecedented. Our meetings are structured in such a way that we put a big emphasis on continuing professional development and our members tell us how valuable that element is to them. And so, it was no surprise that Cheltenham’s thriving business community leapt at the chance of a different approach to high-calibre professional networking when we announced we would be opening a new group in the Gloucestershire town. Good networking is a skill and using it well to position yourself, your business or your career, can yield big benefits... Why supporting local causes is good for business If you want to be a successful business, start by giving back. Why supporting local causes is good for business If you want to be a successful business, start by giving back. Ok, so we’re about to blow the Opendoorz trumpet... Over the last year our Opendoorz members raised over £43,000 for our chosen charity, the very worthy Be Free Young Carers. Every year, we support a local charity and every year we are always blown away by how much our members, all local businesses themselves, go over and above to support, fundraise and raise awareness. It links back to one of our core values – generosity of spirit. Like a stick of rock, it runs through everything we do and reflects our firm belief that as a business we have a commitment to support and be a part of the local community in Oxfordshire, Gloucestershire and Berkshire. Raising much needed funds for charity is, of course a major objective. The money that Opendoorz members raised has enabled Be Free Young Carers to buy essential winter hampers for young people with caring responsibilities. It’s funded 3 Christmas parties for young carers and made a trip to the pantomime for over 60 young people a reality. It’s also enabled the charity to buy essential care products for young carers, such as sanitary towels, that they might otherwise go without in the this cost of living crisis. BUT, it’s also so much more than that. As Sabiene North, CEO of Be Free Young Carers told us: "For us this wasn't just about fundraising, it... If you find networking as awkward as going on a first date, then check out our top tips for making a lasting impression. If you find networking as awkward as going on a first date, then check out our top tips for making a lasting impression. February is the month of love and romance (or at least that’s what the card and flower companies tell us! ). Never ones to shy away from a band wagon or a trending topic, we thought we’d jump right on and talk about the other great relationship you should be giving your time, attention and devotion to this month – the one with your professional network of course! So, here’s a quote we hear quite a lot... “I know that networking is a good thing for my business/career, but it’s more painful than dating and it makes me cringe! How do I connect with people without making them think I’m a total idiot? ! ” We know how you feel! We’ve been there, seen it and got the T-shirt, but believe us when we say that it doesn’t have to be that way. Managing an effective networking community is a bit like being a matchmaker. You need carefully orchestrated, structured meetings that allow people to engage and interact without the awkward small talk and cliquey groups. You need a host that works hard to identify synergies and connect people with thoughtful introductions and you need opportunities to develop those relationships outside of the structured environment. We put all of that experience and expertise into Opendoorz, and the results speak for themselves – 12 groups, over 140 members... How to build your personal brand through networking You don’t have to be an influencer or celebrity A lister to have a personal brand. In fact, each and every one of us really ought to be thinking about what our brand is and how we want to use it to achieve our objectives. How to build your personal brand through networking You don’t have to be an influencer or celebrity A lister to have a personal brand. In fact, each and every one of us really ought to be thinking about what our brand is and how we want to use it to achieve our objectives. ‘Personal brand? What is this marketing flimflam? ’ I hear you cry. Well, buckle up, because if you’re not thinking about your personal brand, you clearly aren’t serious about your business or your career. Your ‘brand’ is how you represent and promote yourself to others. It’s the way you show your experiences, skills, and personality to the world. And by telling your story and expertise, you can build professional relationships and new career opportunities for yourself. Now that doesn’t sound like flimflam to me! Contrary to the vainglorious first impressions conjured up by the term, personal branding doesn’t involve endless hours at the salon, posing for highly staged, yet supposedly completely natural Insta shots or launching your own brand of energy drink on TikTok. In fact, having a strong personal brand can mean pretty much anything you want it to be because it’s all about you and how you present yourself to the world. Regardless of whether you want one or not, most of us already have a brand. In old money, it’s what we’d call a reputation – the values, characteristics and achievements we’re known for amongst our community. What many of us don’t consciously do... Meetings held at the iconic 18th Century Queens Hotel. The iconic 18th Century Queens Hotel in the heart of the town, is the venue for the meetings of our Cheltenham group. Situated in a prime position on one of Cheltenham’s most beautiful Regency streets and with its striking exterior, it’s a venue that’s not to be missed. Alongside our monthly members meeting, our guest events are always the fourth Tuesday of the month, just drop us a message and come along. We look forward to welcoming you to our meetings in a stunning location in this much celebrated festival town. Want to ensure 2023 is a great year in business for you? Make networking a key part of your marketing strategy with our simple resolutions. Want to ensure 2023 is a great year in business for you? Make networking a key part of your marketing strategy with our simple resolutions. I know we’ve not even hit Christmas yet and you’re probably enjoying all the Christmas parties, food and fizz (I know I certainly am! ). But if I could just, for a moment, talk about next year, I think it will be time well spent... There’s no escaping the fact that the challenges facing businesses are going to persist into 2023. Spiralling costs, low consumer spend, and tax hikes are all going to feature. Your network is going to be more important than ever. That concept of ‘meet, know, like, trust’ is going to help your secure valuable introductions, referrals and recommendations. If networking isn’t already a key part of your marketing strategy for 2023, now is the time to do something about that with our handy guide to making networking resolutions you can keep AND that work. Resolution 1: Growth is a team effort Growing a business requires support, advice, referrals, and great role models and mentors to learn from and emulate. Resolve to be more open in your networking. I know this can feel a bit scary and counter-intuitive (after all aren’t we supposed to present an uber successful version of ourselves? ! ) but opening up about challenges and being open to ideas from others will help you build trust amongst your network and will help them understand how they can help... There’s a buzz amongst business owners in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire at the moment and it’s all to do with some very exciting news…Opendoorz is coming to town! There’s a buzz amongst business owners in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire at the moment and it’s all to do with some very exciting news... Opendoorz is coming to town! For well over a decade Opendoorz has honed a winning formula for professional networking across Oxfordshire and created a community of business owners, directors and entrepreneurs that has a phenomenal track record of not only passing business but providing support, knowledge and professional development. There are currently ten Opendoorz groups across Oxfordshire and Gloucestershire with well over 100 members and we’re about to embark on a new adventure in Berkshire and Buckinghamshire with new groups set to launch in Newbury and Marlow. Excited doesn’t even come close to how we feel! It's a tried and tested formula that puts great emphasis on facilitating our members to develop their professional relationships and really get to know each other. One on one insight meetings, showcases, continuous professional development sessions and creating a trusted space for open and honest discussion are all part of the regular structure of Opendooz and one of the reasons our members stay with us for such a long time. The other reason we have such a large and devoted membership is that Opendoorz makes good business sense. Creating those trusted relationships and being part of a community makes it easy to refer and recommend and our members share well over £2m a year of business between them. Of course, there is another very compelling reason that our members tell us... Meetings held at the tranquil Harleyford Golf Club. Our Marlow venue is the tranquil Harleyford Golf Club, set in truly magnificent surroundings on a private estate nestled by the river Thames in Marlow, it’s the ideal destination for our Marlow group. Meetings are twice monthly on the first and third Thursdays. The first meeting is held exclusively for our members, the second is our guest event, which is a great way to build a professional business network of trusted suppliers, strategic partners and potentially introducers of business. If you’d like to come along as our personal guest, please drop us a message. There are always new contacts, great afternoon tea and we even head to the bar afterwards – what’s not to love? First time networking that is (what did you think we were talking about?!) Networking nerves can really get in the way of growing your business. At Opendoorz we do things a bit differently so that everyone – new and seasoned members – have a truly positive experience. First time networking that is (what did you think we were talking about? ! ) Networking nerves can really get in the way of growing your business. At Opendoorz we do things a bit differently so that everyone – new and seasoned members – have a truly positive experience. Your heart is beating faster, your palms are a little bit sweaty, and your tummy’s doing summersaults... you’re about to walk into a new networking group. As you look hopefully around the room, for a face you recognise or the warmth of a smile from someone who might be open to a chat, you wonder why these things are always so damn nerve wracking! We’ve all been there and can recall the feelings well. But what can we do to help others and to ensure they don’t feel the fear that’s akin to being the new kid in the playground? Let’s be completely honest - we can all get a little absorbed in the conversation we’re having but it doesn’t stop us noticing that person wandering slightly aimlessly or looking awkward in a corner. And when we do notice them, can we put our hand up and truthfully say that we’re keen to help them out? That we make a concerted effort to make space for them in our conversation, to welcome them into the fold, to help alleviate their fears and out them at ease? Probably not, if we’re being brutally honest. At Opendoorz, a warm and welcoming atmosphere is... How to tell compelling stories if you’re in Professional Services. We know two people who’ve got the answer… because let’s face it – professional services can be a little bit ‘dry’. So how do you grab your audience and get them to engage with your business? How to tell compelling stories if you’re in Professional Services. We know two people who’ve got the answer... because let’s face it – professional services can be a little bit ‘dry’. So how do you grab your audience and get them to engage with your business? It wasn’t many years ago when those in professional services relied on their reputations and golf club contacts to secure a steady stream of clients. Thank God we’ve moved on from that (my golf swing is shocking! ). However, the flipside is that the professional service world has had to get better at engaging with their target audience to maintain and build their practices. I’ve watched many Opendoorz members from the Professional sector - from lawyers to accountants and from insurance brokers to management consultants – build and develop fantastically strong relationships that have led to phenomenal business results. So, how have they done that? When it comes to professional services, there’s no ‘sexy’ sell – it’s often something people either ‘have to’ or ‘need to’ buy. We spoke to two Opendoorz members who run successful professional services businesses to get their top tips on how they use Opendoorz business networking to engage their audience. Nikki Poole, describes herself as a ‘breath of legal fresh air’. She is the Director of Culture & Innovation and an owner of Hedges Law Ltd. Hedges has grown from a small high-street practice to a high-end, well-renowned and successful law firm. A founder member of Opendoorz, Nikki is... Opendoorz Directors Sonia Kearns and Cathy Dunbabin look at the benefits of joining Opendoorz for those in the property sector - there are many! Opendoorz Directors Sonia Kearns and Cathy Dunbabin look at the benefits of joining Opendoorz for those in the property sector - there are many! If you’re in the property arena and you’ve been thinking of joining a networking group but you’re a little hesitant (networking is just stuffy schmoozing isn’t it? ) then THIS could be your sign to do it. Staid and stuffy Opendoorz is not - we’ll see you at the bar after the networking for a glass of bubbles! At Opendoorz we help businesses to flourish. Our members are always keen to share their expertise and knowledge and benefit from others doing the same. We also want it to be in a fun environment, one that you actually look forward to attending - trust us we’ve seen enough dull networking events to know that these are not the way forward! So for all those involved in property, here are our top five reasons why you should consider joining Opendoorz... drumroll please! #1 Raising Your Profile to Make Connections Networking is a great way to raise your profile not only amongst your sector but also with other business professionals. It’s a chance to get your name out there with people who you might not otherwise meet and to open new avenues of work. Share your ideas and your expertise and other members will recognise an opportunity, when it arises and they’ll be able to recommend you. This is where it pays to bring a positive attitude! Property and... Opendoorz Director, Sonia Kearns, explains the attributes they look for in new Opendoorz members - a hint: quality over quantity! Opendoorz Director, Sonia Kearns, explains the attributes they look for in new Opendoorz members - a hint: quality over quantity! Could you be the next member of Opendoorz? It sounds rather like something Simon Cowell might say on an episode of X-Factor, and whilst we’re not going to make you perform on a stage (you can stop practising now! ), when it comes to new Opendoorz members we are looking for someone with the elusive “X-factor”. Just think more along the lines of business development and networking, rather than your rendition of a Whitney Houston classic. When myself and Cathy Dunbabin founded Opendoorz we wanted to create a networking group that was more ‘grown-up’. We wanted our members to create valuable relationships - we’re not here for the smarmy schmoozing or one upman (or woman)-ship. Nope, instead our mission is ‘For each Opendoorz group to deliver a unique, vibrant, educational and fun environment where long term trusted relationships are forged, develop and thrive. ’ And to achieve this, it means that we are very discerning about who joins Opendoorz. We’re looking for the very best, rather than a ‘they’ll do. ’ Yes, Opendoorz is for business owners and directors from well established businesses with a sound business track record, who are ambitious and are looking to grow professionally and personally. However, what’s just as important is personality, chemistry and a positive outlook on life. We’re after that glass half-full attitude to life! We’re looking for people that share our moral... Meetings held at The Oxfordshire Hotel and Golf Club. Set in the Chilterns with views to die for The Oxfordshire, with its champion golf course is a great place to unwind and talk about your business picture. As with all Opendoorz meetings, our members are here because they have the right mindset and outlook for the group. We’re small in number but when it comes to business acumen we pack a real punch, and we love sharing that with others. Our events are on the second and fourth Thursdays of each month. Kicking off with a member meeting and following up with a guest event which is always provides great company, plenty to discuss and lots to think about over the following days. We’re all about new contacts, connections and having a professional yet fun afternoon. Excellent meetings and great connections are par for the course. Opendoorz Director, Sonia Kearns, explores the ‘buzz’ she gets when Opendoorz members form long-lasting, fruitful collaborations! Opendoorz Director, Sonia Kearns, explores the ‘buzz’ she gets when Opendoorz members form long-lasting, fruitful collaborations! In a former life, Cathy Dunbabin and myself would definitely have been the village Matchmakers. Obviously, this would have involved copious amounts of hat buying and fizz consumption, at which we are both highly skilled! However, we also have quite a knack for connecting and introducing people who we know will hit it off. Clearly, professional matchmakers aren’t much called for these days (although that doesn’t stop us trying! ), however, in business the idea of bringing talented, professionals together to form prosperous collaborations and supportive communities is incredibly valuable (and luckily for us also includes fizz drinking! ). When we set up Opendoorz as a professional membership network, we based the model on the foundations of “Relationship, Opportunity and Success”. The principle of collaboration is the unifying link between those foundations. It’s what makes Opendoorz tick, it’s at the heart of our ethos and is one of the clearest markers of success we have. Over the last dozen years of successful professional networking, we’ve seen first-hand what a powerful business tool collaboration is through our members time and time again. The reason collaboration works so well within Opendoorz is down to the emphasis we put on our members really getting to know, like and trust each other. Our members can confidently collaborate with and recommend each other because they understand each other’s business offering inside out, trust that person to deliver and believe... A new Opendoorz group in Wallingford is the latest new kid on the block for this rapidly growing professional business network. With a fast-growing membership, it’s the relaxed yet professional vibe that’s drawing members in… oh, and the cake! A new Opendoorz group in Wallingford is the latest new kid on the block for this rapidly growing professional business network. With a fast-growing membership, it’s the relaxed yet professional vibe that’s drawing members in... oh, and the cake! Over the millennia, the market town of Wallingford (for many years in Berkshire but since the 1970s a part of Oxfordshire) has flourished as a centre for trade and enterprise. Although, Opendoorz wasn’t around in the Middle Ages – not even our beloved founders, Sonia and Cathy, are quite that old – the long history of business and entrepreneurship certainly made it an obvious choice for the latest Opendoorz group. The Opendoorz professional business network has grown considerably over the last few years. What started as one group in Oxford has steadily grown to a network of eight groups across Oxfordshire with more than 100 business owners and director level members. Wallingford is one of the latest groups to launch with a flourish and a pop of corks (we don’t do launching any other way! ) and is already proving an excellent source of connections, support, and business for its members. An unsubstantiated rumour is that the history of brewing was what drew Opendoorz to the town of Wallingford! The group launched in February and it’s not just the beer that’s meant they haven’t stopped enjoying themselves yet! Led by the intrepid Phil Saville as Associate Director, the group meets every 1st and 3rd Thursday of the month at the George... If you’re looking to up your game when it comes to building a trusted network of business connections, it’s a good idea to get the insight of someone who’s a dab hand at it. Sam Farmer is just that. Or how the Opendoorz professional business network is growing from strength to strength with some very special new Associate Directors. If you’re looking to up your game when it comes to building a trusted network of business connections, it’s a good idea to get the insight of someone who’s a dab hand at it. Sam Farmer is just that. Although not quite old enough to be either Cathy or Sonia’s toy boy, he’s definitely wise to the benefits of being part of a trusted professional business network such as Opendoorz. Sam joined Opendoorz 11 years ago with his business Nightingales Wealth Management and is still so convinced of the business and personal development benefits that he’s about to take it to another level and become an Opendoorz Associate Director. Later this year, Sam will launch a new Opendoorz group in Marlow. With the experienced (*not old) hands of Opendoorz founders, Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns, behind him and the support of over 100 existing members across 8 groups, Sam is excited to bring the Opendoorz experience (including the obligatory fizz! ) to the Marlow and Beaconsfield business community. We asked Sam to tell us a bit more about why he loves business networking with Opendoorz, the impact it’s had on his business and what he hopes the new challenge of Associate Director will bring. Hey Sam, 11 years is longer than some marriages, tell us why you’ve stuck with Opendoorz for so long? There are 3 ways in which I... As MD of Digital Gearbox, Becky Hopkin, is used to managing a business that deals with national and international clients who are looking to increase their profile online and drive sales and leads via Pay Per Click (PPC) advertising. If you’re a small business owner and networking is not a key part of your marketing strategy you could be missing out on a powerful tool that will not only help grow your business but help grow your skills as a business leader. Read one MD’s experience of networking As MD of Digital Gearbox, Becky Hopkin, is used to managing a business that deals with national and international clients who are looking to increase their profile online and drive sales and leads via Pay Per Click (PPC) advertising. The rise (and rise) of online shopping has been a key driver in their business expansion over the last few years. Add into the mix an increasing number of businesses who don’t sell online but also recognise the power of online lead generation and you can see why Becky has her hands full growing the team and offices. Becky joined Opendoorz in March 2021 and we asked her to tell us more about how networking has helped her grow her business and develop professionally. What were your first impressions of Opendoorz? “I first went along to an Opendoorz guest event just after COVID restrictions had lifted enough to allow face to face networking. Although I’d done a lot of networking prior to lockdown, I couldn’t believe how different Opendooz was to everything else I’d ever been to. The first thing that struck me was how relaxed and professional it was at the same time! It sounds like a bit of a contradiction... Effective networking can reap rewards for your business but the key is not to focus on the money. Follow our top tips to learn how to get the most out of networking and turn this marketing tool into a powerful part of your business success. Effective networking can reap rewards for your business but the key is not to focus on the money. Follow our top tips to learn how to get the most out of networking and turn this marketing tool into a powerful part of your business success. If you’ve fallen out of love with networking, the chances are you’re doing it wrong! We can all make the mistake of choosing networking events based on what we think we will get out of it but if you start by thinking about how much business you’ll get, it’s likely not to work! The essence of strong networking is about finding a group and a community of people that you feel comfortable being around and who you are able to contribute to... yes we said ‘contribute to’, not ‘get from’! The key to effective networking lies in having a genuine desire to be part of and support a business community. When you take a proactive approach to sharing knowledge, skills and resources you build a reputation as someone who can be relied upon. That makes you a ‘go to’ person – your number is on speed dial and your name is the one that gets mentioned first when it comes to referrals and recommendations. So, how do you get to be that person everyone recommends through networking? Well, we’ve compiled some top tips for you to follow. Let’s start by thinking about the traits or behaviours of people who have made networking really work for... Opendoorz member, Rob Allaway - MD at DevComms, reveals how his business has benefitted from being part of Oxfordshire’s foremost professional business network. Opendoorz member, Rob Allaway - MD at DevComms, reveals how his business has benefitted from being part of Oxfordshire’s foremost professional business network. If you judge the value of networking purely on the £££ of business you receive, you are missing the point and probably not Opendoorz member material. There, we’ve said it. We are selective in who we allow into our professional business network and not just on the calibre of business person. Yes, you do have to be a business owner or director, but there is also another more intangible criteria which is all about mindset and attitude. Being part of one of the 7 Oxfordshire Opendoorz groups means being part of a business community where business passed is only one of the benefits. So, what else can you expect from an Opendoorz membership? Well, we asked Opendoorz member, Rob Allaway, to share his experience. Tell us a little bit about yourself and your business. “I’m the Managing Director at DevComms. We are specialists at political and stakeholder engagement working exclusively in the property and planning sector. We take complex planning and development projects for developers and landowners, including FTSE 100 firms and help them deliver their strategic development programmes and achieve their growth targets. Over the course of my career, I’ve been involved in several hundred projects ranging from care homes to top-flight sports stadia. ” When did you join Opendoorz and what prompted you? “I’ve been part of the Opendoorz family since October 2019. I’m a... The charity that provides a free ‘home from home’ place to stay for families while their child is in hospital gets a Christmas facelift. The charity that provides a free ‘home from home’ place to stay for families while their child is in hospital gets a Christmas facelift. Generosity of spirit is one of the Opendoorz core values. Like a stick of rock, it runs through everything we do – from how we treat each other to the attitude with which we approach each and every opportunity that presents itself to us. It also expresses the personality of all the Opendoorz groups. The Opendoorz team and all the members at each of the seven groups are proactive in sharing their experiences and expertise to create a learning environment where knowledge is shared and new ideas and initiatives formed. Supporting each other through questioning, challenging and giving honest and constructive feedback helps everyone to improve, innovate and grow. The other element to ‘generosity of spirit’ is our firm belief that as a business we have a commitment to support and be a part of the local community. So, when the opportunity came along to meld these two – the individual personality of each group and supporting our local community – we, naturally, jumped at the chance! Throughout 2021 Opendoorz has been supporting Ronald McDonald House Charities UK and the brilliant work they do providing free ‘home away from home’ accommodation to families whilst their child is in hospital. Having already raised over £12,000 over the course of the last year, we decided we could raise the bar for Christmas. A Festive Challenge On 29 November,... Opendoorz member, David Haimes - award winning coach within the worlds largest coaching firm, Action Coach, explains how with a few simple touches along the customer journey you can turn your target audience into your biggest fans who’ll happily tell everyone how great you are. Opendoorz member, David Haimes - award winning coach within the worlds largest coaching firm, Action Coach, explains how with a few simple touches along the customer journey you can turn your target audience into your biggest fans who’ll happily tell everyone how great you are. At Opendoorz we have a mantra. It goes: ‘Meet, know, like trust’. It’s a topic we talk about a lot and is absolutely core to the success our members experience through Opendoorz networking. Building quality, long-lasting relationships with your business network is the only real way, in our experience, to create sustainable success. This month we’ve asked David Haimes, an award-winning coach with the world’s largest coaching firm – Action Coach, to guest author the Opendoorz blog following a hugely successful Continuous Professional Development (CPD) session he ran. In it, David explained why and how the notion of building a relationship with your prospects and customers through each stage of their journey with you is a sure-fire way to turn them into raving fans, that aren’t just loyal to you but proactively tell others how great you are too. Over to you, David... Your client base sits at the very heart of your business, after all without them, there is no business. Attracting, engaging and retaining clients are all distinct marketing and sales functions but together they form the customer journey. What is the customer journey? The phrase ‘customer journey’ describes each and every encounter a customer has when interacting with your brand or service;... Do you want to be part of one of the fastest growing, most successful networking groups in Oxfordshire? Read on… Do you want to be part of one of the fastest growing, most successful networking groups in Oxfordshire? Read on... What do you love about networking? Is it making new connections? Bringing people together and seeing those relationships flourish? Do you get a buzz when an opportunity is turned into a reality? If you answered yes to those, then you are well and truly on our wave length! Despite COVID doing its best to thwart all of us business owners, 2021 has been a fantastic year for all the Opendoorz networking groups. We’ve witnessed some amazing relationships being built and some phenomenal amounts of business being passed.   We have 7 thriving groups across Oxfordshire and over 80 Directors & Business Owners as members. 2022 is shaping up to be even bigger and we’re looking for more Associate Directors to join us on this adventure! In particular, we are looking for Associate Directors to take the helm at our Oxford, Milton Park and Henley groups and also... breaking news... for our new North Cotswolds group (watch out Gloucestershire, Opendoorz is on its way! ).   With dynamic Directors Cathy & Sonia at the helm you’ll be working alongside them to grow a new group, implementing the Opendoorz strategy and supporting the personal and business growth of its members. As a business owner already, this gives you a great platform to grow your own business through building your connections and supporting others as well as having a bit of fun on... Opendoorz Director, Cathy Dunbabin, shares the secret to building long-term, effective professional relationships. Professional relationships are just like personal ones. No really, they are. They take work, they take compromise, they take shared values and they take chemistry. When you meet someone in your professional network that you ‘click’ with, magic happens! Not only do you find an ally, a supporter and a friend, you find a person who will champion you and refer to you repeatedly. Those sorts of connections are priceless and, much like a marriage, can last a professional lifetime. However, ‘get into bed’ (for want of a better phrase) with the wrong person and it can lead to upset, bitterness and expense! But how do you know when you’ve met ‘the one’ in professional networking terms? Well, it’s all about understanding what you’re looking for in a professional partner. And... here’s where the marriage analogy ends... it’s actually better to have a few ‘special’ professional relationships. Loyalty in professional relationships is key but exclusivity isn’t! What are the key qualities to look for in your professional relationships? Below is our Opendoorz list of the qualities we think make for a great professional relationship. New business introducer It’s a given really – we’re all here to do business. Trusted supplier Don’t just think sales, think about people who can help you deliver what your customers want. Collaborator Someone who you can partner with to deliver a unique offering to a shared customer base. Repeat introducer Those who... How you present is just as important as what you present. Communications expert, Anthony Donovan, shares his top tips to help you improve your presentation skills. “Delivering a presentation can be enough to drive fear into even the most rational and positive thinking people, yet it need not be the terrifying ordeal we often make it out to be. ” That sounded like a big claim from Opendoorz member and owner of Donovan Training Associate, Anthony Donovan. So, we decided to challenge him to lead one of our continuous professional development (CPD) sessions with the topic of ‘How to improve your presentation skills. Anthony set up Donovan Training Associates, a learning and development consultancy, in 2005 to deliver bespoke training courses to business owners, leaders and people managers, enabling them to be productive, successful and happy in their place of work. One area of training they provide is a tailored presentation skills course for business leaders.   We were so impressed with Anthony’s advice and ideas throughout the CPD we just had to share it in a blog. Read on to discover Anthony Donovan’s advice on how to improve your presentation skills. Think of your presentation like a Formula One race In every race, each team starts with the end in mind. An objective of what position they want to finish in and a strategy to help get them there. Use this approach in presentations. Before getting drawn into the detail, consider the following: • What are the key messages? • Who are you talking to? • What action do you want them to take? • What emotions do you want to inspire? Hit the ground... Meetings held at The George Hotel in Wallingford, South Oxfordshire. The delightful George Hotel in South Oxfordshire is home to our Wallingford group. A beautiful 16th Century coaching inn set in the very centre of the pretty, historic market town of Wallingford, it’s the perfect location for getting our members and their guests together. Our members only event is on the second Thursday of each month and on the fourth Thursday we open our doors to personally invited guests. The meetings are a great opportunity for members and guests to expand their business networks, make new connections and develop those all-important strong relationships. A fly on the wall at one of our group meetings would witness a lot of laughter, banter and goodwill. If you’d like to know more about us then please get in touch. Supporting charities is a crucial part of what makes Opendoorz professional business networking so successful Supporting charities is a crucial part of what makes Opendoorz professional business networking so successful Giving back to our local community is one of the reasons Opendoorz exists.   Understanding what makes your business tick, its purpose if you like, is crucial to its long-term success. That purpose is often articulated in terms of core values. When we first set up Opendoorz 11 years ago, we didn’t really understand that and kind of ‘copied’ other people’s values as we thought ‘They’re a successful business, those must be good values’. Obviously, they weren’t right for us and, once written, they never got looked at again. Then about 5 years ago we revisited our values and really thought about what drives us to keep investing so much of our time, energy and commitment to Opendoorz. What is our purpose? Over a glass or two of fizz (well, this was about sticking to what we love! ), we developed 6 core things that really matter to us and that we know really matter to our members too.   Never CompromiseBring out the Best in EveryoneHave a ‘Grown-Up’ ApproachEnergise and MotivateHave FunBe Generous of Spirit  That last value – Be Generous of Spirit – has been crucial to how we’ve run the business during the COVID pandemic. Over the last 18 months the importance of being mindful, taking time to proactively support others through connections, introductions and collaborations has been crucial. The Opendoorz team and all the members of each of the six groups... Opendoorz Director, Cathy Dunbabin, shares a simple exercise to help you quantify the net worth of your network and identify opportunities to add value. Identifying the net worth of your network Opendoorz Director, Cathy Dunbabin, shares a simple exercise to help you quantify the net worth of your network and identify opportunities to add value. No matter how hard you work, how many hours you put in, or how much sleep you lose – you alone cannot make your business a success. One of the most common characteristics amongst successful entrepreneurs is the strength of their network – the range and depth of relationships they forge, nurture and develop in order to help them achieve their goals. In fact, it’s no under-statement to say that a strong network is often the deciding factor over a business’s success or its failure. Understanding and identifying the value, or net worth, of your network is a valuable exercise to help you identify where there are strategic gaps in your network and where, sometimes, your network is a resource drain rather than helping to serve your goals and ambitions. Using my experience over the last 20 years of networking, I’ve devised a simple exercise to help you identify the net worth of your network and identify where opportunities exist to help you achieve your goals. Task 1: What do your get from your current network that helps you in business? Grab a pen and paper and give yourself a quiet 5 minutes to think honestly about your current network. Jot down the things that it gives you in business at the moment. It’s important to note here that... How to blend virtual and face to face networking for maximum results How to blend virtual and face to face networking for maximum results The last 12 months have seen a seismic shift in how we business network. Gone went the warm, friendly handshakes and exchange of genuine smiles to be replaced by ‘at home’ relaxed vibes (including pets, children and slippers! ) and an ability to get a full day’s work done around your networking events. While face to face interactions have a special kind of magic that we’re thrilled to see beginning to return, networking digitally is definitely a trend that’s here to stay. So, if you thought the days of hearing ‘Dave, you’re on mute’ were almost over, think again! Savvy networkers are blending both styles to get maximum impact from their networking and you can too – just follow our top tips below. #1 Use virtual networks to begin new professional relationships LinkedIn is one of the best digital networking tools you can have in your armoury. If you want to grow your network, do some research first on LinkedIn and find out what mutual connections you already have. Getting an online introduction from a mutual contact is much more likely to yield results. Plus, already being ‘digitally acquainted’ will make taking to an in-person meet up much easier. #2 Deepen professional relationships in person It is hard to build a meaningful relationship online only. The type of relationship in which someone would be willing to go out of their way to help you requires a certain amount... How the virtual world has brought positive changes to business networking I don’t know about you about there’s a real feeling of change in the air. Never before has the shift in seasons from winter to spring felt more welcome or more needed. Daffodils are in full bloom; the sun is peeking through with genuine warmth and there is positivity in the spring air. Over the last year, business networking has been a lifeline for many businesses. Not just from the connections made and the business exchanged but the support that’s been shared freely as business owners across Oxfordshire and Berkshire have faced some dark days and tricky times. The fact that Opendoorz has grown its membership – we’ve welcomed 15 new members already in 2021 – and recorded record levels of business exchanged, is testament to the pivotal role networking has played in business throughout the pandemic.   With the gradual easing of restrictions, it really feels like we are emerging into the daylight to look at the networking landscape with a fresh pair of eyes. The last 12 months of networking in an almost exclusively virtual world has revealed new ways to form relationships and develop connections. Spring 2021 is brimming with the opportunities to take the advantages of virtual networking into the ‘real world’ and we’re super excited about what’s in store. But let’s not get too far ahead just yet. Like many businesses in 2020, we had to adapt to a rapidly changing business landscape quickly. Our members were used to meeting face to face, where camaraderie... The ultimate guide on how to fall (and stay) in love with networking The ultimate guide on how to fall (and stay) in love with networking Throughout February you may have seen Cathy’s cupid moments on LinkedIn. We’re old romantics at heart and so thought we’d keep the theme of love for our March blog and talk about how to keep the romance alive when it comes to networking (metaphorically of course. Although we’ve seen more than just business sparks fly in Opendoorz over the years! ). Here’s our guide on how to fall, and stay, in love with networking. Commitment As with any relationship, you get out what you put in. When you decide to join a networking group, it’s absolutely essential to throw yourself whole-heartedly into it if you want to get the most out of it. At Opendoorz we have a number of commitments, or KPIs, that our members agree to when they join. Why? Well, networking is a two-way street and to ensure both individual and group success we all need to be kept accountable. Our Opendoorz KPIs help keep us focused and committed on the activities we know reap the most benefits for individuals and for the groups as a whole. That’s having regular Insights, or 1-to-1, meetings, inviting relevant guests and passing opportunities. Shared Values Strong relationships are built on shared values. Whilst our KPIs keeps us focused on what’s important, it’s the common values we share that really bonds Opendoorz members together. Within Opendoorz everything is based around quality not quantity. So, whilst, member contribution is... The networking success story of Opendoorz 2021 marks Opendoorz 10th anniversary. It’s been quite a journey for founders Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns who have not only managed to build a successful business but have remained the best of friends throughout. For our latest blog they share the secret to their success. Good friends and committed fizz drinkers since their eldest daughters started school it was around 2006 that Cathy and Sonia started talking seriously about going into business together. “It was over a few drinks that we hatched a plan to start our own business. It wasn’t exactly on the back of a fag packet, more like a champagne label! ” says Sonia. In 2007 they launched Frontdoorz, a property company, which Cathy freely admits, ‘wasn’t the best timing’. Under the cloud of the global financial crisis, the pair turned to networking as way to get their new business on the radar. “Cathy was already a seasoned networker, but it was completely new to me. ” Says Sonia “The original plan was for Cathy to do all the networking and I’d be ‘backstage’, but with so little work coming in we had to both get out there and start building connections. ” Despite being heavily involved in their networking groups the right sort of referrals just weren’t coming. “I decided to step away” says Cathy “But I felt so sad because I just bloody love networking! That’s when Sonia said to me ‘Why don’t we set up our own group? ’” The seed of Opendoorz was... A networking plan can help you reap the rewards So, it’s not quite the start to the year we were all hoping for but if you resolved to ‘do’ more networking in 2021 don’t let that put you off. Equally, don’t wait until face-to-face networking resumes. Over the last decade of running Opendoorz professional networking groups we’ve learned that the best way to approach networking, as with most things in life and business, is with a plan and carefully managed expectations. If you rock up to a networking group, maybe you even go two or three times, and expect to start seeing the contracts roll in – you are sorely mis-guided my friend. The thing about networking is that it takes time and effort to build solid foundations from which you can start to build profitable relationships. When taking the plunge into a new networking group we recommend having a look at our step-by-step networking plan to help you get the best return on your membership fee. Step 1:Find the right group Networking groups vary in style and format so it’s best to try out a few to find the one that suits you best. Our Opendoorz guest events are very lively affairs but there’s still a strong meeting structure that ensures everyone gets something out of the meeting. Walking in or, at the moment, logging in to a new group can be daunting but the right group for you will quickly help you feel relaxed and welcome. You’ll get a ‘feeling’ that you’ve found the right place. Step... We all have years that we’d rather forget, 1984 was a particularly bad one in terms of fashion for me! But I don’t think there has ever been a year like 2020 in recent times when, as a collective, we all just want to see the back of it! It’s tempting to just pretend that 2020 never happened. For many of us, our businesses have been hit hard and we want to move on from the stress and plan for a brighter 2021. I absolutely advocate an optimism and a focused eye on the horizon but I also think we would be mis-guided if we didn’t take the time to reflect on what we’ve learnt and what we’ve achieved in 2020. For us, the first three months of 2020 was largely one of unbridled excitement and optimism. We had big plans to grow the groups and the Opendoorz team but by the end of March we were thinking somewhat differently! As we wrote in our blog at the time, ‘The announcement of lockdown in the UK was, to be quite frank, a moment of sickening terror for myself and Cathy. Our ENTIRE business model is built on regular face to face meetings, where business owners and directors build relationships, develop professionally and exchange business opportunities in a structured format. No small part of which is down to a good chat over a drink in the bar afterwards! ’ When I think back to that time now, I can still feel that creeping sense of panic. What the hell were we going to do? ! Of course, what we did was pour a stiff drink, pull on our ‘big girl pants’ and took to Zoom to figure out a plan. And that’s what we did. We shifted our entire business model online... The top 6 psychology tricks you can use for better networking Have you ever wondered where your networking is going wrong? Perhaps you feel like you’re putting in the time and the leg work but those all-important connections aren’t coming through with tangible opportunities. Bells ringing? Read on... Networking is a key part of marketing for many businesses. When it works, the rewards can be huge but when it doesn’t it can feel frustrating and a waste of time. Like all forms of marketing there is an art and a science to networking effectively. Over the years we’ve witnessed our Opendoorz members learn to excel at networking and reaping the rewards as a result. We’ve known the winning formula instinctively for a while but it was one of our members, Rob Allaway of Property PR company DevComms, leading a CPD session on ‘The Psychology of Persuasion’ that really switched on a lightbulb for us about the psychology behind great networking. Rob led a great session in our Oxford group based around the book ‘Influence: the psychology of Persuasion’ by Robert B. Cialdini which explores the six areas of influence that are commonly used, particularly in marketing. Rob put us all to work thinking about how and when we use these areas of influence in our own jobs and that’s when the penny dropped! These six psychology tricks that marketers use to influence customers can also be applied specifically to networking and leveraging maximum results from it. Read on to discover what the six areas of influence are and how you can apply them to... When times are hard, we need to fight the urge to baton down the hatches and keep the wheels of business turning. One of our favourite quotes is from good, old Winston Churchill. He said, ‘When you’re going through hell, keep going. ’ It’s a mantra we’ve applied to our business when times are tough, and right now all businesses are going through tough times. In this blog we’re going to unpick that concept a little bit further and get to grips with what it means for the future prosperity of all our businesses. To throw another quote out there, ‘no man is an island’ and neither is a business. All of our businesses are part of a chain, we rely on clients to keep our cogs oiled and our suppliers rely on us to do the same for them. In these uncertain and unprecedented (sorry, we know it’s overused but it’s true! )times it is more important than ever to invest in our relationships both up and down the chain. It comes a little more naturally to invest that time with our clients because they are the hand that feeds us. We check in with them, we network with them, we work hard to keep ourselves front and centre of their minds. Less instinctive, but also crucial, is to invest time into maintaining the relationships with our suppliers. Opendoorz would not be able to function without the suppliers we use, as is likely to be the case for many of your businesses. So, it’s vital we support the businesses we spend our money with and make sure we show them our... Networking experts, Cathy & Sonia, share the secrets to building a successful professional business networking group. Networking experts, Cathy & Sonia, share the secrets to building a successful professional business networking group. In the last month Opendoorz members have generated over £500,000 in new business between themselves. That’s pretty impressive for 7 groups with an average of 12 members in each whilst in the midst of a global pandemic. So, what’s the secret? How does Opendoorz regularly and consistently generate such high levels of business shared amongst members? Well, it’s all to do with how focused we are on synergy and relationships. Read on to find out more. In generations gone by Opendoorz Directors, Cathy Dunbabin and Sonia Kearns, would probably have been the village matchmakers. Identifying good matches for families based on social standing, characteristics, alliances and, because at the heart of it they’re a pair of old romantics, the likelihood of love blossoming. Fast forward to the 21st century and Cathy and Sonia have used their natural talent for bringing people together and spotting good synergies to build the increasingly successful Opendoorz business model and playing matchmaker in the business arena. Cathy explains; “We set up Opendoorz because we felt strongly that there was a real gap in the professional business networking arena for a membership group that focused not on the number of referrals being made but the quality of the relationships being built. We knew if we could nail that the business referrals would come. And they did! ” The format of Opendoorz meetings focus on developing strong relationships, not selling. This stems... Meetings held at the newly refurbished Holiday Inn Oxford by IHG. Central Oxford was where it all began, back in January 2011, when we launched our first Opendoorz group. The Holiday Inn Oxford by IHG is located just off the Peartree interchange plays host to our Oxford group. Having undergone a £14 million refurb, it’s sophisticated and elegant, the perfect location to mix business with pleasure which is precisely what Opendoorz is all about. Whether you prefer to use the Academy or the lounge there are options of a pre-meeting highlight! Our meetings are held on the first and third Tuesday of the month. The first meeting is exclusively reserved for our members, whilst the third meeting of the month, is opened up to personally invited guests who our members feel would help the group to expand their business networks. Before a meeting or event our members can inevitably be found in the recently refurbished Business Academy or the vibrant lounge, discussing new business opportunities and identifying ways in which they may be able to work together. What better way to network in Oxford! Please get in touch if you’d like to join us. Meetings held at the Bicester Hotel Golf & Spa. Set in the stunning Oxfordshire countryside, the Bicester Hotel Golf & Spa hosts our North Oxford group. Situated in Chesterton, the family-owned resort is set among acres of stunning Oxfordshire countryside, and offers us the perfect setting for our members to meet and develop their business relationships in a relaxed and first-class atmosphere. Meetings take place on a Thursday. Our amazing members meet on the first Thursday of the month and on the third Thursday we hold a guest event, which always results in new contacts, a stronger network and obviously, great tea and cake. Do contact us to come along and hear more about what we do – tea is on us and we’ll even buy you a beer in the bar afterwards! Meetings held at The old Swan & Minster Mill. A stone’s throw from beautiful Gloucestershire, Minster Mill, a charming Cotswold Stone building and barns is the meeting place for our Minster group. It’s the ideal gateway location for Opendoorz, stylish and vibrant with gorgeous surroundings – flanked by 65-acres of idyllic grounds set in the picture-perfect Oxfordshire village of Minster Lovell. With magical gardens, lush wildflower meadows and woodland which come alive during the summer months it perfectly lends itself to hosting our networking events. It’s members only on the first Wednesday of the month with our guest event held on the third Wednesday. It’s the ideal opportunity to meet make new contacts and connections as well as dive into good cake and coffee! Please contact us if you’d like to come along and see what we’re all about. Meetings held at the newly refurbished Holiday Inn Oxford by IHG. The Trinity group meet at the Holiday Inn Oxford by IHG which is located just off the Peartree interchange. Having undergone a £14 million refurb, it’s sophisticated and elegant, the perfect location to mix business with pleasure which is precisely what Opendoorz is all about. Whether you prefer to use the Academy or the lounge there are options of a pre-meeting highlight! Our members meeting is the first Wednesday of the month, and our guest event takes place on the third Wednesday. We can guarantee great company, meaningful conversation and plenty of food for thought. There’s also the added bonus of a fabulous venue and a relaxing drink... or two. We would love you to join us. Meetings held at the prestigious, private members Leander Club. Our Henley group meets at the prestigious, private members Leander Club. Founded in 1818 it boasts an unsurpassed record in rowing achievements and is home to heroes such as Sir Steve Redgrave CBE, Sir Matthew Pinsent CBE, triple gold medallist Peter Reed OBE & double gold medallists James Cracknell OBE, Steve Williams OBE, and Alex Gregory MBE, as well as the champions of tomorrow. The Henley group meets twice a month, with one member’s meeting on the second Tuesday of the month and then a guest event which take place on the fourth Tuesday of the month. We can promise great tea and cake, a fantastic river view and a post-meeting stroll on the riverbank, drink in hand, it doesn’t get any better! Please get in touch if you’d like to come along. Meetings held at the Frilford Heath Golf Club. Frilford Heath Golf Club, just 20 minutes outside Oxford, is a refined and relaxed location for our Frilford group meetings. With close proximity to Abingdon, Didcot and Milton Park, and boasting a wealth of industry on the doorstep, it’s the ideal base to begin growing your professional support network. We hold meetings on the second and fourth Thursday of every month – the first is for members only, the second is our guest event which is open to business owners, partners or directors looking to grow their professional network, make new connections and develop strong relationships. We can’t think of a better way to strengthen your business so why not get in touch? Creating win-win situations Creating win-win situations A quick Google search reveals the meaning of ‘Collaboration’ to be ‘the action of working with someone to produce something’. At Opendoorz HQ we are big fans of collaboration. In fact, we’d go so far as to say that collaboration is what makes Opendoorz tick, it’s at the heart of our ethos and is one of the clearest markers of success we have. We’ve seen first-hand what a powerful business tool collaboration is through our members time and time again and despite the curveballs that 2020 has thrown at us there’ve been some brilliant recent collaborations going on between Opendoorz members. Why collaboration works so well within Opendoorz is down to the emphasis we put on our members really getting to know, like and trust each other. Our members are able to confidently collaborate with and recommend each other because they understand each other’s business offering inside out, trust that person to deliver and believe in the value their service adds. Collaboration in action Oxfordshire based accountancy firm, Wellers, work in partnership with their clients to help support and educate them, as well crunching the numbers. Partner, Debbie Austin, has recently been collaborating with fellow Oxford Group member and business coach, David Haimes, from The Henley Coaching Partnership on a joint education piece. 'What you need to know to Sell your Business' offers sound advice and information relevant to both Debbie’s and David’s clients. The piece has been widely shared across both sets of contacts and to the wider Opendoorz... COVID might have thrown Opendoorz a curve ball but we’re not letting it get in the way of ambitious goals! COVID might have thrown Opendoorz a curve ball but we’re not letting it get in the way of ambitious goals! Way back in our April blog (it feels like a lifetime ago! ) we talked about how the announcement of lockdown at the end of March felt like a killer blow. We were left facing the biggest dilemma of our professional lives – how on earth do we take an ENTIRE business model built on regular face to face meetings, where business owners and directors build relationships, develop professionally and exchange business opportunities in a structured format and move it online? But we did it. 80 members across 7 Opendoorz groups in Oxfordshire and Berkshire, plus a similar number of guests all happily and successfully developing connections, building relationships and growing their personal development ONLINE. Buoyed by this success we sat down and looked at our original business plan for 2020 which set out some ambitious growth targets. Could we? Dare we? Never ones to shirk a challenge, we decided that we could, actually that we should shoot for those goals. We’d overcome the biggest obstacle we’d faced since launching Opendoorz in 2011, maybe not with ease – it was bloody hard work, but we’d more than just survived, we’d thrived under lockdown. So, despite the strangest of times and the unplanned but quickly implemented detour into an online business model, we’ve ploughed on with our plans to expand the number of Opendoorz Associate Directors from 2 to 4. Opendoorz... 5 Top Tips for better online networking 5 Top Tips for better online networking Hands up if you’ve been to a virtual networking event in the last few weeks with your slippers on? Lockdown has meant we’ve all relaxed into a new routine of working from home. But this new reality, albeit temporary, also feels pretty alien. Handshakes, hugs and chit chat are out. Screen shots, thumbnails and slide sharing is in. ‘It’s networking Jim, but not as we know it! ’ If, like us, you thought until recently that zoom was something a photographer did check out our 5 top tips for better online networking (with or without your slippers). 1. Prepare as if it were a face to face meeting Just because you’re not leaving your house doesn’t mean you shouldn’t prepare as if you were heading off to a big meeting. Prep your introduction or any presentation you’re giving in advance and make sure you know what the format of the meeting is. Make sure you’ve got a drink to hand and use the loo before the meeting starts! Crucially, arrive a few minutes early (you’d be surprised how many people can be late to their spare room! ). 2. Look the part We’ve all enjoyed a more relaxed dress code whilst working from home but be careful not to allow that to transfer to online meetings and networking. You don’t have to be suited and booted to sit in the spare bedroom but be mindful that it is still your chance to make... You don’t need more hours in a day, you just need to make better use of the ones you’ve got. You don’t need more hours in a day, you just need to make better use of the ones you’ve got. Time is a funny old thing. Actually, it’s not really a ‘thing’ at all, it’s a concept that is supposed to help us bring order and structure to our world. So, why does it feel like time is often our enemy, working against us to pile on the stress, rather than a tool to helps us? Undeniably, time is a valuable commodity; we talk about trying to ‘buy more time’ or ‘carve out more time’ but of course, we can’t actually do that. There are the same number of hours, minutes and seconds in a day for everyone – it’s what you do with them that counts. Time Management is a well-worn phrase but a much-misunderstood concept. We usually think about time management as a tool for getting more done. The trouble is you can’t just ‘get more done’ if you’re already working flat out. In business especially, time seems to be particularly thin on the ground. We are all striving for that utopia whereby we get all our business tasks done in a normal working day and then still get to spend plenty of quality time with our friends and families. ‘Work Life Balance’ is a phrase that is now almost as commonplace as ‘Time Management’ and yet also feels as equally vague. So, just how do you get stuff done and still find time to enjoy life? Find... How do you keep your business going when the model is based on face to face networking? How do you keep your business going when the model is based on face to face networking? The announcement of lockdown in the UK was, to be quite frank, a moment of sickening terror for myself and Cathy. Our ENTIRE business model is built on regular face to face meetings, where business owners and directors build relationships, develop professionally and exchange business opportunities in a structured format. No small part of which is down to a good chat over a drink in the bar afterwards! Opendoorz now has seven groups across Oxfordshire and Berkshire meeting twice a month. That’s around 80 members, plus the guest events which often doubles that number. That’s roughly 160 people every month that we are no longer able to offer the same service to. Gutted, doesn’t even come close to how we felt. However, wallowing is not really the Opendoorz way of doing things, so we pulled our “big girl pants” on, poured ourselves a drink, and took to Zoom to figured out a plan. Opendoorz has always been about building relationships and creating opportunities so that businesses can succeed. That basic principle hasn’t changed, we just had to think of a new way to deliver it. We knew that for many of our members Opendoorz would be more important than ever to enable connections, keep informed and give a valuable lifeline to the wider world. And so, with a little help from some of our members, we came up with a new way of... How to be a ‘generous’ business and why it’s so crucial to your long term success. How to be a ‘generous’ business and why it’s so crucial to your long term success. At Opendoorz one of our core values is ‘Generosity of Spirit’. Like a stick of rock it runs through everything we do and is a key part of our DNA. But what do we mean by ‘generosity of spirit’? Well, to start with it’s about being keen and eager in all our undertakings (even our VAT returns! ). From our regular group sessions to meeting potential new members for a coffee we approach each and every element of Opendoorz life as an opportunity. We are open to what the experience might bring and try not to put too many of our pre-existing expectations upon it. It also expresses the personality of all the Opendoorz groups. The Opendoorz team and all the members at each of the seven groups are proactive in sharing their experiences and expertise to create a learning environment where knowledge is shared and new ideas and initiatives formed. Supporting each other through questioning, challenging and giving honest and constructive feedback helps everyone to improve, innovate and grow. The other element to this core value is our firm belief that as a business we have a commitment to support and be a part of the local community. Every year we choose a local charity to be our main cause. But there are also a whole host of ways in which other charities receive support from Opendoorz too. We welcome charities to join... Get more out of your networking by picking up these good habits. Get more out of your networking by picking up these good habits. Over the past 20 years we have attended literally 1000’s of networking events and observed many highly successful (and some not so successful) networkers in action. Like sponges we’ve absorbed everything and taken every opportunity to listen to and learn from these experts. We’ve been privileged to have developed long-term relationships with many of these master networkers, several of whom are long-standing Opendoorz members. We want Opendoorz to stay at the top of the networking list for business Owners and Directors across Oxfordshire so we know we have to continually adapt and improve. Continuous professional development is not just a part of our regular Opendoorz meetings it’s a key to the Opendoorz culture. As we’ve watched these pros work a room over the years we’ve observed that no matter who they are, what industry they work in or background they come from they all share similar behaviours and characteristics when it comes to professional business networking. Perhaps for some it comes naturally but for most it is a learned skill (just like tying your shoe laces) and with practice anyone can emulate the key traits required to become better at networking. We’ve compiled the top 7 traits that we’ve observed all good networkers have to ensure better networking success; #1 Be open-minded Good networkers recognise that there are more benefits to networking than just business opportunities. They use networking to build their bank of trusted suppliers, learn from... Standing out from the crowd is a good thing (a really good thing). Standing out from the crowd is a good thing (a really good thing). If I had a pound for every time the subject of how to differentiate a business came up in conversation at Opendoorz meetings I’d, well let’s just say, I wouldn’t need to be writing this! Unless you are the only seller of frozen margheritas on a tropical island packed full of holiday-makers it is quite likely that you are in a marketplace with others who offer the same or similar services and products to you. If we could dip our toe just slightly into the marketing jargon pool for a moment it's called your 'USP' or 'Unique Selling Point' (sometimes 'Unique Selling Proposition' - same thing just more syllables). It all boils down to finding your hook - what will make you stand out in the crowd to your target audience? Get the answer right and you have a healthy, growing and successful business. Get it wrong and your business will crash and burn (think Gerald Ratner... need I say more! ). I recently stayed at a hotel where for one reason and another we arrived late and a little flustered. The reception staff greeted us warmly and instructed us to ‘pop our cases down over there and they’ll be taken to our rooms. Come on in to the bar and sit by the fire while we get you a drink. G &T? Fizz? ’ Perfect! They anticipated our needs and made us feel welcome and at... Amidst all the Christmas partying and festive activities, it’s easy to let the fact slip by that in just a few weeks we will be entering a brand new decade. Amidst all the Christmas partying and festive activities, it’s easy to let the fact slip by that in just a few weeks we will be entering a brand new decade. As one year draws to a close and a new one looms it’s always a great time to reflect and plan but when it’s a whole new decade it feels even more poignant. So grab a glass of fizz (it is Christmas after all! ) and take a few moments to think about where you’ve been in and what you’d like the future to hold. The very first thing you should do is focus on the successes. Quite often we get so bogged down into the day to day that we often forget to notice just how far we’ve come. Obviously, think in context of your professional development but don’t forget to think about what you’ve achieved personally. What have you learned? How have you grown as a business person? What challenges have you overcome? Give yourself the recognition you deserve and appreciate all that you’ve accomplished. Once you’ve acknowledged the positives, have a think about what the challenges were and what lessons have you learnt. Don’t spend to long reflecting on the negatives but use them to think about what you might’ve done differently and how the outcomes could be have been better. Also think about whether the challenges are things that fall under your control or has the market changed? Through reviewing your successes and challenges you’ll probably... Have you ever wondered what the winning formulas are for networking? Well, for a start it’s definitely not: Anyone + Vagueness = No-one Have you ever wondered what the winning formulas are for networking? Well, for a start it’s definitely not: Anyone + Vagueness = No-one It’s a common misconception that when asked who you’d like introductions to you should cast your net as wide as possible. In an attempt to not narrow the chances of receiving introductions people often keep requests as broad as possible. The trouble is requests that are too vague and unspecific often mean others don’t really understand who would make a good introduction and so don’t bother. Equally, the winning formula is not: Everyone + Too Generic = Nothing Some people believe in taking the ‘fling enough mud some of it will stick’ approach to networking but in our experience too broad or vague requests result in a real lack of introductions. I know it seems counter intuitive, but 20 years of networking has shown us this time and time again. However, if you add ‘Being Specific’ with ‘Clarity’, it tends to add up ‘Sought-after Introductions’. And if you multiple ‘Sought-after Introductions’ by ‘Genuine Relationship Building’ the results tend to ‘Business Success’! The simple fact is if you can’t be specific about who you’d like an introduction to then you cannot expect others to be able to make introductions to you. You have to do your research, leg work and preparations to help others help you and increase the opportunities you’ll receive form a business networking event. At Opendoorz we put a lot of emphasis on leveraging opportunities...