About Us
Fabulous Networking
Our Story
30 odd years ago I took voluntary redundancy from my corporate career. I wanted to set up my own business to work around the needs of my young family. I knew it would be challenging but what I hadn’t factored in was the loneliness.
My husband was supportive but didn’t really ‘get it’. When I won a big contract he said, ‘well done, how much is that worth?’ in a somewhat flat voice. He didn’t get the hours of work or angst that went into winning that contract.
I was lucky that that first contract was split with another small business owner, and we went on to form a firm friendship and to win a number of other contracts too. We would bounce ideas around together and push each other when needed. Networking had put her in touch with a number of other specialists who could plug the gaps in our skills, leading to even more opportunities. I soon saw the value of networking. But most of it consisted of interesting venues, canapes and a glass or two of wine whilst swapping business cards with others I would see occasionally at similar events.
Something was still missing…
I found it when I found Fabulous Women (what we were called in the beginning). That something was a community of people like me… small business owners with a desire to listen, support, share, learn and collaborate. I’d found my tribe and I loved it.
I loved it so much that when the owner decided she had to quit, like Victor Kiam I had to buy the company. (If you don’t know who Victor Kiam he was the man who loved the Remington Razor so much he had to buy the company and tell the story in all their advertising for years.)
I took over on January 1st 2019. Since then we’ve had a global pandemic, a war in Ukraine and a cost of living crisis. I’ve also had some personal health challenges. Our community has been there throughout. Supporting and encouraging each other. Filling in the gaps when needed. Sharing knowledge and links to business help. Chatting over a cup of tea when business wasn’t a priority. Partying online when spirits needed to be raised. We’ve kept a focus on business whilst realising that it’s not always business that is the help people need.
We continue to evolve with ideas and input from members. That’s where our new Monday BizChat micro networking sessions came from and where our Book Club originated. We’ve tried other ideas that didn’t stand the test of time. We’ll keep innovating with our members help to keep our offer fresh and relevant to members.
Could we be your tribe?
Glenda Shawley
We like…
People… people who are kind, considerate and supportive
Our natural world
Learning
Prosecco… especially when shared with friends
Brentford FC… OK, that’s just me… other clubs and sports are supported in the community
We don't like...
The hard sell… build the relationship first
Know it alls who have the answer to everything and no humility
People who want to dominate every space they’re in with no regard for others
We’re sure, if you’ve read this far, that we could be your tribe, but the best way to find out is to come along to up to three of our events to find out.
We don’t have a script for our meetings, and our agenda is quite loose so each group leader can inject their own personality. You may like one group or event more than another which is why we don’t expect you to decide to join at your first, or even second, meeting.
When you do join you join the community, not a specific group so you can attend any event at any time. Your commitment is just one month at a time though the benefits you get accrue over time and getting to know people.
Take a look at our calendar and book a couple of trial events now. We look forward to meeting you.