Thurrock Network Group

One of the monthly events that the Thurrock Learning Shop is proud to host is the Thurrock Network Group. Organised by Louise of Dotty Hippo Design in conjunction with the FSB, the open group gets together on the third Thursday of every month. Tea, coffee and a light breakfast is provided by Knowledge Thurrock Innovation Associates and of course, the event is free.

The benefits for local businesses to attend are that they get to meet a network of local peers, that they can promote their business, investigate support opportunities and learn of potential new customers. Many new business owners find issues of isolation so the meeting also provides an excellent opportunity to have a chat and find some new friends.

The next meeting will take place at 8am on the 16th December and in celebration of the season will include a free gift for attendees. If you'd like some more information, or indeed to attend, please call Richard on 07500 802 311.

Blogging, an introduction

I think Blogging is similar to keeping a diary; the difference comes in that generally diaries are kept for personal thoughts and personal use whereas blogs are out in the public space and mostly available on the web. For this reason, they can be an excellent communication channel; a great way to let your stakeholders know what you've been up to; to offer advice & share experiences; or to keep people informed of upcoming events and activities.

There are many different types of blogs for many different audiences but according to the most recent data, Universal McCann have identified that 77% of Internet users read blogs. Of course, statistics vary from site to site and there may not be quite so many visitors to the Campanology Wales blog as Belle de Jour but each could be effective in reaching it's audience, just in it's own way.

If you are new to blogging, are thinking about creating one or are wondering how it could be part of your communication plan, Knowledge Thurrock Innovation Associates in collaboration with Business Link, the University of East London and The Blogmistress are pleased to be hosting seminars on 10th December 2010.

The first seminar is aimed at business owners and managers, Marketing Executives and Sales Directors and will cover;

• What blogging is and what it isn't
• What blogging can do for your business
• How to incorporate blogging into your marketing mix
• WordPress basics
• Useful resources to get on with it

There are a few places left on the morning session which can be booked at http://www.bookevents.org/

There is also an afternoon session aimed at community groups, clubs, support networks and members of the local community which will offer a more kitchen-table approach to the art of blogging. Places on the afternoon session can be booked direct with the Thurrock Learning Shop on 01375 485490.