Why the IPB is the Ultimate Resource for Networking 

In this blog, we will explore the numerous benefits of joining the IPB and why it is the ultimate resource for networking.

What is networking?

Firstly, networking allows people and business owners/colleagues to meet, share ideas and hopefully do business. It’s also a great way for professionals to raise their profile, for them to learn and excel and offer advice to those just starting out, or even those who are seasoned pros – we can all learn from one another, and networking is a great way to do it.

Networking can be done in person at events, conferences, and exhibitions or online, via tools like the IPB.

Networking etiquette is important and being kind and respectful is a given for any good online networking tool.  That’s why the IPB has created a function called ‘give a complement’.  Our AI tool will pick out any negative comments and will prompt the ‘complement giver’ to improve their language.

The purpose of the ‘complement giver’ networking tool on the IPB is to encourage, support, motivate and engage, both positively and respectfully. Those giving the complements can be:

• Collaborators
• Account Managers
• Clients
• IPB Leadership team
• Bidding, Finance, Procurement and Design freelancers

Our aim is to create a positive online networking experience for our freelance professionals.

Understanding networking for businesses

Networking has always been a crucial aspect of any business, and it’s even more essential for procurement and bidding professionals. As the market becomes increasingly competitive, networking plays a significant role in staying ahead of the game and exploring new opportunities.

It’s fortunate for all of us that, in today’s digital world, the task of networking has become more convenient.

Our platform serves as a hub for bidding and procurement professionals, making it the ultimate resource for networking should you want to:

• Connect with other professionals
• Seek support from a freelancer to deliver your next project
• Assess our offering to see if it’s a viable solution for your business.

Our top 10 reasons why the IPB is an excellent networking tool for businesses and professionals:

1 – Diverse Network

First and foremost, the IPB allows professionals to connect with a diverse network of individuals from various industries and regions. This extensive network provides endless possibilities for collaboration, partnership, and business expansion.

2 – Global Expansion

As global markets continue to grow, our platform offers exposure to new markets and a chance to showcase your skills and expertise to a broader audience. The reach and scope of our international procurement and bidding platform is unparalleled, making it the perfect resource for freelance bidding and procurement professionals to expand their client base.

3 – Communication & Collaboration

We offer a wide range of tools and features to facilitate communication and collaboration between our members. Our platform is designed to provide a seamless networking experience, making it easy for you to connect, engage, and share bidding and procurement knowledge.

4 – Touch Points

From chat tools and discussion forums to virtual events and webinars, our platform provides numerous opportunities for you to interact and exchange ideas. Additionally, our platform has a user-friendly interface, making it easy for you to navigate and connect with others effortlessly.

5 – Resources & Information

Another significant benefit of joining the IPB is the access to valuable resources and information. Our platform is a treasure trove of industry knowledge and insights.

As a member, you have access to:

• Virtual learning environment
• Blogs
• Articles
• Templated policies and procedures across all industries
• How-to guides
• Sector-specific guide documents

All the above help you to stay updated with the latest industry trends, news, and best practices. This information not only broadens your knowledge but also enhances your professional credibility.

6 – Experienced Mentors

You can network with the best in our field. Our mentors have a minimum of fifteen years’ experience in bidding and procurement and networking with them to enhance your own knowledge will deliver endless opportunities for your future career. Networking isn’t just about meeting new people; it’s about learning from them too.

We’re never too old to learn, right?

7 – Career Opportunities

Moreover, as an international procurement and bidding platform we also serve as a means for individuals to find new career opportunities. Not just in the UK either—the IPB opens international opportunities that will set off your career to new horizons.

As the job market becomes increasingly competitive, networking plays a crucial role in finding the right job. Our platform provides a place for professionals to showcase their skills and experience to potential clients and employers.

The diverse network of individuals on the IPB also help connect bidding and procurement professionals with job opportunities that may not be advertised elsewhere. In today’s job market, networking is more important than ever, and the IPB platform provides the perfect setting for professionals to do so effectively.

8 – No Need to Sell

When joining the IPB, networking can be just that.  Networking, meeting new people, making new friends, and sharing knowledge. You don’t have to worry about selling to clients because we’ll do that for you, leaving you to do what you do best, deliver exciting projects.

By taking away the stress of making sales, networking becomes so much more enjoyable as everyone is there for the same reason—to meet, share insight, discuss the industry, make friends, and build networks they can draw upon in their current or future career.

9 – Collaboration

Via the IPB, you will be networking with people who have all been through the IPB accreditation, meaning you have instant connections and something to talk about. There won’t be any uncomfortable silences when networking with the IPB.

Here are some example discussion points you could use at your first networking meet:

1. How are you finding the IPB?
2. Have you delivered any exciting projects lately?
3. Do you find the product easy to use?
4. Have you been accessing the support of your account manager? Do you get the support you need?
5. I’ve encouraged my friends in the industry to join as it gives us a better day rate for referring other professionals – did you know that? You didn’t?  Oh, let me explain how that works to you.
6. I love the complement feature; it gives me a real spring in my step. Have you delivered any complements via the IPB?
7. What’s your favourite feature on the IPB?
8. I had a great mentoring session last week. We discussed translation for bids in the Middle East—it’s really something I would never have thought about until I attended this session. Have you attended any good mentoring sessions you could share with me?
9. It would be great to collaborate on the next project, should we connect on the IPB?
10. I’m going on annual leave next week and I think my bid is going to get extended, as you have a similar background, would you like to collaborate on a project?

10 – Networking Builds Opportunities

It goes without saying that networking builds opportunities, and as freelancers we need opportunities to thrive. The IPB allows us to network in the ways that we feel comfortable and safe, and our Founder, Jill’s core goal was to create a platform where everyone is ‘safe’. There will be no online negativity. Any signs of negativity and people will be removed. It is a safe place to deliver great work, seek support and feel part of a wider team all whilst working remotely and living our best lives.

Recap – how do we network via the IPB?

So, we will end this blog informing you of the different ways we plan to network as part of the IPB:

1. We’re going to organise online knowledge sessions – giving us all a chance to input and be part of a wider community. Think Tony Robbins, only smaller (for now!)
2. We’re organising an international conference called Courageous – watch this space for more information.
3. You can connect with other professionals online via the IPB so when you’re ready to collaborate, you can.
4. You can give complements – spreading positivity and encouragement throughout the portal.
5. You can deliver a workshop, if you think you have something to share that would be useful to other users, run it past the IPB, if signed off, you’ll be paid handsomely for it.

Importantly, we are a network of winners.  We don’t only win new projects to deliver, we win bids, we win connections, we win friends, we win collaboration opportunities.  Every day we will strive to build our network and be successful freelancers, together.

With the market becoming increasingly competitive, networking has become a crucial aspect of career growth, and our platform provides a convenient and efficient way to do so.

So, why wait?

Join the IPB today and reap the numerous benefits it has to offer.