Network’s speedy growth

8:35am Thursday 26th October 2006

ORGANISERS of a new networking organisation for York businesses are determined to attract another record number of visitors next month.

Network York, was founded last month by three local business people - Anne Ma'aye of events company Topoccazzions; Michael Menzies-Baird, of solicitors Harland & Co; and Joe Jenson, of Jenson Print Solutions.

Twenty people turned up for the inaugural event, and 25 attended the next gathering at the Park Inn Hotel, York, last Thursday. Now Mrs Ma'aye is expecting yet another record for the third meeting, again at the Park Inn, on Thursday November 23.

The first half an hour is devoted to speed business networking.

Mrs Ma'aye said: "I blow a whistle and the first person speaks for one-and-a-half minutes to a guest of their choice before the whistle goes again, and the chosen guest then gets the opportunity to put in their 90 seconds-worth before exchanging cards. Then it's all change as the next whistle blows.

"It really gets the room buzzing. No possibility of shyness here, and breaks the ice for the following half an hour when guests are free to mingle."

New visitors pay £5, which includes coffee and a pastry. Joining costs £100 per year, including refreshments.

Anyone who wants to join or attend a meeting should phone Mrs Ma'aye on 01904 764452.