Interested in starting your own entrepreneurial journey in business development but unsure what to expect? Then read up on our interview with Kingsley Aikins, CEO of The Networking Institute, located in Blackrock, Dublin, Ireland.

What's your business, and who are your customers?

We are an online and offline training company that specializes in training executives in Networking, Diaspora Engagement, Philanthropy and Fundraising, and Public Speaking. We have worked with hundreds of companies and thousands of executives in over 30 countries.

Tell us about yourself

I have a passionate belief that building strong and diverse Networks is a core competency for individuals and companies in the 21st century. However, it is not taught at school or college, and companies don't have strategies for it. The hidden cost of Covid is that all our networks have shrunk, and we need to get back out of Networking as soon as possible.

What's your biggest accomplishment as a business owner?

Establishing my own company and successfully and profitably developing markets in 30 countries around the world.

What's one of the hardest things that comes with being a business owner?

It is a lonely business, and you have to get accomplished in being rejected. The single hardest thing is finding the finance in the early days.

What are the top tips you'd give to anyone looking to start, run and grow a business today?

  1. Become a great listener.
  2. Manage serendipity.
  3. Build strong and diverse networks.

Where can people find you and your business?

Website: https://thenetworkinginstitute.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thenetworkinginstitute/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thenetworkinginstitute/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kingsleyaikins
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/thenetworkinginstitute/

If you like what you've read here and have your own story as a solo or small business entrepreneur that you'd like to share, then please answer these interview questions. We'd love to feature your journey on these pages.

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