Autumn Business Session at Fig Offices – A Recipe for Success

From smoothies to speakers, last week’s Autumn Business Session was a recipe for success for all involved, as attendees revelled in the warm welcome provided by Fig Offices and the knowledge of those who took to the stage.

Newly published author, of Secret Swindon, Angela Atkinson, introduced us to the local meaning for the acronym BB (Before Brunel). And Jackie Mitchell, Circle to Success, how to connect with a room through the press of a button opposed to a handful of business cards. Moreover, we all learnt that networking events need not be formal as new acquaintances teamed up to solve puzzles and games supplied by local escape rooms business, Incarcerated.

In the large, light space of Fig’s offices with panoramic views of Swindon, it became clear how a small market town became a thriving business hub. We are a town that continues to grow through, both population and economy.

A fact acknowledged by CMD Recruitment as they shared the importance of investment when hiring new employees and the cost of a bad hire through an alternative game of “head or tail”. For those who lost the game early on, it highlighted our limited knowledge when it comes to recruitment. However, it also provided a fascinating insight into an area which touches all businesses small or large. Especially in the South West which holds the highest average rate of employment.

Centrally located Swindon is home to many large co-operations, fantastic business facilities and beautiful green spaces. A belief shared by a full room of proud local business owners and charities who were keen to tell their story.

Total Guide’s own MD, Liz Ledger, spoke of the growth of Total Guide since its launch in Swindon in 2012 and rapid expansion to nearby Bath and further afield Manchester. As well as plans to sell existing sites Total Bristol and Reading as franchises.

Liam Armstrong, Domino’s Pizza who recently moved to the area, spoke of “not just being a pizza business”, his wish to work with a local charity and long-term out of work locals.

While long-term resident and business owner Verity Manners shared the Wrag Barn's story of how a working farm transformed into an 18-hole golf course. A tale that parallels with Swindon and its metamorphosis aided by industry.

As a town, we continue to make both the country, world and technology more accessible through our businesses. A case made by Anytime Fitness 24-hour gym who introduced us to the possibilities of not only virtual classes, but global gym use.

Technology, stories and pizza aside, the one fact that remains is when it comes to successful business; the best approach is to bring people together in a central shared space and to give them a platform.

Something Total Guide will continue to do for the long-term future, not only for our clients but, for the businesses of Swindon. Because we know when it comes to a connection it all begins with your network.

We at Total Guide To would like to thank our suppliers who helped to make this event happen; Fig Offices, Domino's Pizza and Threshold Housing Link. Also a massive thank you to all of the exhibitors, speakers, and everyone who attended.

By Emma Smith

If you enjoyed Emma's article, you can read more on her blog here!