Funded by Barking and Dagenham Enterprise, there are three actual networks centred on different local sectors, automotive, electrical and construction. Although the groups are facilitated, the members decide the agenda and issues to be discussed. “The network really benefits from the fact that it is driven by its own members and the issues they see as priorities, rather than having to respond to an external prescripted agenda.” Says Chris Oliver Managing Director of AJC Wilsons Bodyshop (vehicles repairs).

Steve Smith Managing Director of Boleyn Body Shop Accident and Repair Centre agrees “ Some of the previous networks I was involved with were a waste of time, with the Mentoring Network, the co-ordinator asks us what we want out of the meeting and helps us to share and build on the ideas coming out.” Vernon Parker Company Secretary of Harding Bros Electrical also thinks the network is different, ”There is a real advantage in being able to discuss ideas with likeminded companies from a similar environment and locality, who are facing similar situations; by focussing on the agreed priority issues we are able to make the solutions more relevant to our company; which is vital in this difficult time.”

The mentoring networks take place outside normal business hours making them easier to get to, and unlike other networks that start off with a bang and then fizzle out, attendance and numbers have been steadily increasing although organisers CEME are keen to keep things on a small scale to retain the informal character of the events. “The relatively small size of the network is an advantage,” says Vernon Parker, “it means you have a real chance to get to know people, share ideas and look at things from a different angle. The network offers a level playing field and the chance to consider realistic solutions that are implementable.”

In spite of some initial worries about how easy it would be to share information with potential competitors it seems the network has managed to create a level of trust. “Rather than treat each other as competitors, because we feel comfortable, we act well as a team voluntarily sharing views and ideas that benefit all.” comments Steve Smith. “The meetings have a really good relaxed atmosphere which encourages companies to talk to each other, and it is a real eye opener to find out how other companies approach things,” agrees Steve Johnson owner manager of Johnsons Drainage Services ”They also offer the opportunity for business development with local companies.” CEME are looking at increasing these business development opportunities by creating cross sector meetings as well as broadening out membership to include the whole supply chain.

This will help boost local trade and reduce the carbon footprint of each company. In addition to providing the right environment for members to focus on a number of common themes such as marketing, customer retention, credit control and training, the networks also offer the chance to feedback to other organisations on issues facing each local sector. Steve Smith has benefited from the opportunity to step back and think about his business from the customers point of view ”We did some role play on what our prospective and existing customers wanted from us, this has resulted in Bolyen Service taking a much more proactive approach to our clients and PR generally.”

Recent winners of one of Barking & Dagenham’s business awards AJC Wilson have also gained from the experience. “Given the economic downturn it is more important than ever to be able to benefit from the good practice of others “says Chris Oliver ”I have been able to take on board a number of ideas including a whole package of customer loyalty initiatives. The group has also been looking at the training and development needed for middle managers; a lot of the companies cannot see anyone coming through to take over their business. With CEME capturing the views and needs of network members, I am confident we have a better chance to influence local training providers to deliver the training we need.”

If you would like a chance to benefit from expert peer help and support especially during these difficult times, then please contact Chris Burr at CEME for more information.