In this episode, Jamie Stewart and Gillian Schofield talk about what really makes networking work for ambitious business owners.

It’s not just about finding clients. It’s about building the kind of relationships that lead to collaborations, partnerships, and long-term growth.

Together they explore:

• Why your ideal clients might not come directly from the room, but your next big opportunity could

• How to spot and create complementary service partnerships

• The shift from transactional networking to intentional connection

• Why online networking can be more powerful (and efficient) than you think

• Real examples of how collaboration has helped Circle Networks members grow faster and smarter

If you’ve ever felt like networking should lead to more than just a business card exchange, this episode is for you.

Chapters

00:00 Rethinking Networking: From Selling to Collaborating

03:02 Identifying Ideal Clients and Partnerships

05:45 The Power of Collaboration in Business

08:50 Creating Unique Offerings Through Partnerships

11:47 Building Relationships: The Foundation of Collaboration

14:40 The Efficiency of Online Networking

17:33 Intentional Networking: Seeking Collaborations

In this conversation, Jamie and Gillian explore the concept that only a small percentage of people are ready to buy at any given time and how to effectively engage with the larger audience that isn't immediately interested. Takeaways:

• Networking should focus on building relationships, not just sales.
• Only 3% of people are ready to buy at any moment.
• Desperation in networking can repel potential clients.
• Asking 'Who do you know that needs this?' is more effective than pitching.
• Preparation and presenting your best self is crucial for networking success.
• Engaging conversations are built on asking good questions.
• Being interested in others makes you more memorable.
• Specificity in requests increases the likelihood of referrals.
• Networking is a skill that can be learned and improved.
• Follow up after networking events to solidify connections.

00:00 The Networking Dilemma: Desperation vs. Connection02:23 Understanding the 3%: The Importance of the 97%04:48 Building Relationships: The Art of Networking07:28 Creating Memorable Impressions09:55 The Right State: Preparing for Networking Success12:18 Asking the Right Questions: Engaging Conversations14:45 Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways for Effective Networking

In this episode, Gillian Schofield and Jamie Stewart have a straight-talking conversation about a trap so many business owners fall into... trying to do it all on their own.If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’ll just start my own business, get some clients, and manage everything myself,” this one’s for you. We’ve both been there. We’ve both worked late into the night, hit bottlenecks, and felt the pressure of keeping all the plates spinning.We talk about the moment you realise that doing everything yourself might be holding you back. From the hidden costs of doing too much, to the social isolation that creeps in when you’re always working alone, we share the reality behind self-employment that no one puts on LinkedIn.You’ll hear us talk about when to bring in help, how to spot when you’ve hit your ceiling, and why building a support network isn’t just helpful... it’s necessary. Whether you’re starting out or you’re a few years in and still carrying the weight of everything, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.Real stories. Practical ideas. No nonsense.00:00 Starting a Business on a Budget04:36 Navigating Self-Employment Challenges09:25 Entrepreneurial Support and Networking10:16 "Seizing Opportunities Through Collaboration"13:47 Realistic Billable Hours Challenge17:02 "Business Solutions Require Human Connection"20:18 Benefits of Delegating Tasks25:01 Outsourcing and Budget Planning30:15 Delegating Low-Value Tasks31:14 "Subscribe to Scale Business"