Kate Cherry Athena Network Beds & Mid-Herts is an award-winning Regional Director of one of the UK's leading women's networking organisations.

After a 15-year career in the financial sector, Kate bought a franchise in the Athena network and has been running groups in Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire for nearly a decade. She explains how she wanted more time with her children and so shifted her focus from a corporate career to her own business success.

She loves being a connector and introducer for like-minded businesswomen, and thrives on building confidence in others. This has been at the heart of her networking business.

Her approach led to winning a Gold Award for Best Networking Business at the BBWAs in 2024. Kate was unsuccessful when she entered in 2019 but with a bit of encouragement, she decided to try again last year. This time she came out on top and tells us how proud and totally astonished she was when her name was called.

We also discuss the advantages of online networking. Kate champions online groups as it allows the most flexibility and exposure for her members. It also saves a huge amount of time. Additionally, she provides invaluable tips on the dos and don'ts of networking. If you're using networking to broaden your business visibility, this podcast is for you.

This episode busts many of the myths surrounding the networking world, and provides practical advice that will help any entrepreneur network with confidence and increase their exposure.

{2:17} Why Kate chose to buy an Athena network franchise.

{10:10} What attracted Kate to becoming a franchisee.

{12:57} Common mistakes in networking.

{19:11} How to succeed in networking.

{22:42} The advantages of online networking.

{28:13} Kate's business tips.

{30:36} Entering awards you failed to win previously.

{34:21} Plans for the next twelve months.

Connect with Debbie at: https://thebusinessawardsshow.co.uk

Connect with Kate: https://theathenanetwork.com/katecherry/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AthenaBedsMidHerts

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/athena_beds_midherts

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/katecherryrd/