Great speed networking session last night. I was filling in for Adam at this The Business Club – West Herts event and really benefitted from this quarterly fixture on their calendar. A dynamic, fun, business-generating event, it is designed to build connections and start new business relationships – and it works!

During the Speed Networking I had the chance to promote Asset Resourcing to 72 other attendees (business owners and representeatives of local SMEs) on a table-by-table basis and made connections that I’m confident will lead to new business.

There was time for informal networking both before and after the structured session so I was able to further develop relationships we have already established with other local employers. I was glad to hear so many stories of other local companies like us not prepared to give in to the recession and subsequently enjoying the fruits of honest graft and quality service.

Membership of the business club has already been rewarding for us (and by default, our candidates). Although it only launched in September 2008 there are now a good number of active local members, and we have generated a number of new customers, business partners and referral opportunities from it. It may sound a bit corny, but of all the networking events I personally have tried it is the best – good fun, relaxed, friendly and already paying back on the membership fee many times over.

Whilst we have only had one temp fall ill with swine flu so far I thought it prudent to do a little research into what you guys should be doing to prevent further outbreaks in your offices. 

It’s just practical steps we can all take to maintain business continuity within our businesses and those of our clients, thus preventing exposing any part of the workforce to increased risk of infection and illness.

Prevention

To reduce the risk of catching or spreading the virus everyone should:

cover their mouth and nose when coughing and sneezing
after using a tissue throw it away quickly and wash hands regularly with soap and water
clean hard surfaces (like door handles and phone handsets, computer keyboards) frequently with a normal cleaning product.

If you get the flu

Catching swine flu, or influenza A (H1N1), will feel like seasonal flu and the advice given by the NHS is: stay at home and rest and take medicines like aspirin, ibuprofen or paracetamol (following the instructions).

Also drink plenty of fluids and check your symptoms by going to the NHS flu symptom checker. This can be found on – www.nhsdirect.nhs.uk

If you come into contact with someone diagnosed as having Swine flu.

Seek advice by telephoning your GP or NHS Direct (0845 4647). You then need to telephone your office immediately before coming into the office.