Networking put Fledgling Firm on the Map
Astrum-IP is the only patent firm based in the city of Newport, home of the UK Patent Office. But when Managing Director Gillian Whitfield established the firm three years ago she was concerned that a lack of local business contacts would hold her back.
“Until then I had been working as a patent attorney for a legal firm based in Bath. In this industry taking your clients with you is frowned upon and wasn’t an option, so finding a way to fill up my contacts book was easily the most pressing issue I faced.”
Solution
Gillian joined the Newport and Gwent Chamber of Commerce almost immediately, aware that it could provide an invaluable chance to network with local business leaders and establish a profile for her own firm.
“I decided to attend a few Chamber networking events, to see for myself the benefits that membership might bring. I came away with two or three strong business leads so joining the Chamber was an easy decision.”
Outcome
Astrum-IP is now well established in the local business community, which has enabled Gillian to build an award winning business with a diverse client base.
“In the early days Chamber networking events were a vital source of business leads and created awareness through word of mouth. I am amazed these days when I look at the sheer volume of names in my contact book, especially when you consider where I started, and that success is in no small part thanks to those Chamber events.”
Today Gillian is vice-president of the Chamber, and in 2007 Astrum-IP was recognised as
Overall Winner of Winners at The Five Counties Business Awards, “Winning awards is always good for reputation, whilst being elected vice-president enables me to meet and get to know some of the most influential business people in the area. Again, there is no doubt that helps me to meet and secure new clients.”