In 2012, Pathway2Grow emerged from a vision to forge a business community where networking, learning, and growth are interwoven.
Safaraz Ali in conversation with Chris Walker from Expressive Design, stated:
So, Safaraz, please share with us your “Why?”
As an introvert business networking appeared daunting. The common perception of networking involves a scenario where being a “boisterous Betty” seems not only beneficial, but almost a necessity. The idea of ‘selling oneself’ in such environments seemed at odds with being a “Shy Simon” my and many others natural inclination towards introspection and quiet observation.
I believed that no one-size-fits-all and we can create a space that resonate with more people and we can develop authentic lasting and fruitful professional relationships.
So, Pathway2Grow business networking community began as a response to the need for more than just transactional business interactions. Our ethos revolves around cultivating genuine business relationships, underpinned by trust and mutual respect, rather than immediate transactional exchanges. This philosophy has nurtured a thriving community, where business referrals and opportunities organically materialise
Where you involved in Business Networking before you set up P2G?
My first foray into the world of business networking began back in my finance broker days, around 2014/2015, with my introduction to networks like Ecademy and BNI. These experiences were eye-openers in many ways. Both networks, while distinct in their approach, revealed to me the multifaceted nature of business networking. Ecademy offered a digital platform which somewhat alleviated the initial discomfort of face-to-face interactions, allowing me to engage at my own pace. On the other hand, BNI’s structured, referral-focused meetings provided a different challenge, pushing me to step out of my comfort zone.
Through these experiences, I came to a pivotal realisation: business networking wasn’t just about self-promotion or a superficial exchange of business cards. It was, and still is, fundamentally about creating and nurturing communities. This insight was a game-changer for me. I understood that even as an introvert, I could contribute meaningfully to these communities. My ability to listen, observe, and provide thoughtful insights became valuable in these settings.
This journey has not only been about adapting to the world of networking but also about redefining it in a way that aligns with my personality. In creating and developing Pathway2Grow, I was motivated by the idea of building a networking community that accommodates diverse personalities, including introverts like myself. It’s a platform where one doesn’t have to be the loudest in the room to be heard, where deep connections are valued over superficial exchanges, and where every member, regardless of their networking style, can feel at home.
Our network is spread over Facebook, Linkedin, Twitter and Whatsapp. We also host regular (pre-COVID) networking events across the country The events include Coffee and Natter, Chutney and Chat, Samosa Saturday, Cereal Network and Peer Meetup.
Each event varies in format however most of our events are free to attend and are an opportunity for people to meet one another in a friendly, and informal setting, with a topical guest speaker.
There is no formal registration or membership fees and members are not expected to attend regularly, although we find most people enjoy it and do. Most importantly there is certainly no pressure to ‘pass’ business or referrals. We know that people are most likely to do business with those that they know, like and trust, and this means building relationships in an environment that is not just about instant selling.
We provide an informal environment for people to come together to share insights, tips, questions and answers that inspire, motivate and more importantly support other members.
At Pathway2Grow the integrity of both the community and its members and maintaining the supportive environment that we aspire to create and work to are of the upmost importance and the bedrock of our community’s ethos.
Come along to one of our events, local to your business. We are running a number of events throughout the Midlands, to allow local businesses to network, learn more, find support and get some great business tips along the way. With leading sales trainers, apprenticeship providers and FREE recruitment specialists, you can learn how to grow to maximise your time and your profits!
The desire to publish their books has been supported by developments in both the publishing industry and consumer interest. With more budding entrepreneurs the consumer demand for business books has increased, resulting in a 9% increase in the sale of non-fiction books.
Readers of business and self-development books have an ever-increasing choice of titles, as authors who might not have been offered contracts by traditional publishers (once a barrier to entering the publishing market) are now easily able to self-publish their works or use the services of hybrid publishers to produce and distribute their books in print, e-book and audio formats.
Since 2012 Pathway Group have been promoting and operating a business networking community called: Pathway2Grow with a vision to engage with local businesses and assist them to Network, Learn and Grow.
Pathway Group believe that building long term effective relationships through local business networking, opens up opportunities leading to business growth.
Pathway2Grow has evolved over the years and know has over 4 different events that run regularly every month across the country.
The events are referred to as Coffee and Natter, Chutney and Chat, Samosa Saturday, Cereal Network and Peer Meetup.
Each event varies in format however, most of our events are free to attend and present great opportunities for business owners and managers to meet one another in a friendly, and informal setting, with a topical guest speaker.
Pathway2Grow: A Business Networking Community that Drives Growth
Pathway2Grow is a multi-level business networking community that provides a platform for businesses to connect, learn, and grow. The community has a strong online presence with over 10,000 members on Facebook, LinkedIn, Twitter, and WhatsApp. It also hosts regular networking events across the country.
The events are designed to be informal and supportive, with a focus on building relationships and sharing knowledge. There is no pressure to sell or refer business, and members are encouraged to participate at their own level.
Pathway2Grow has a proven track record of helping businesses grow. For example, one member, a small business owner, said that the community helped her to increase her sales by 20%. Another member, a marketing consultant, said that the community helped her to land a major client.
If you are looking for a way to connect with other businesses, learn from experts, and grow your business, then Pathway2Grow is the perfect solution for you.
Here are some of the benefits of joining Pathway2Grow:
- Connect with other businesses in your industry and build relationships.
- Learn from leading experts in sales, marketing, and business growth.
- Get access to free resources and tools to help you grow your business.
- Participate in networking events and workshops.
- Get support from other business owners who are facing the same challenges as you.
Coffee and Natter
A completely Free afternoon networking even where we provide the coffee and you bring the natter. The format of the event generally entails open networking, guest introductions, a keynote speaker, as well as a business book review.
Chutney and Chat
An evening of relaxed networking, where people meet over a meal to network and listen to our key note speaker. There is also the opportunity for a member of the community to deliver “Pearls Of Wisdom”, a five minutes discussion on a topic of their choice.
Samosa Saturday
A ladies only networking event that aims to empower professional women. The event takes place once a month on a Saturday and is free to attend with an offering of samosas. The event follows our set format and includes networking with a guest speaker.
Peer Meetup
Our brand for networking with your peers. The general idea is to bring people together from a specific industry/sector and the events are more specific and technical with workshop and training sessions for attendees to gain tailored market knowledge in their field.
Cereal Network
A Free Business Breakfast Networking event where delegates can networking over a bowl of cereal and listen to a guest speaker. The event is for those early birds who like to start their day positively by building business relationships with like-minded people.