How it works

The network structure encourages a practical learning environment for Profitnet members. Groups are either sector specific or mixed with 15 to 18 members. Each group establishes a code of conduct and its own development plan with the assistance of their facilitator.

The Profitnet programmes runs for 12 months, during which time the group members develop a close and trusted relationship. Members benefit from the expertise and skills of their peers in group and therefore members are asked to treat and prioritise the meeting like a board or client meeting. 

Meeting Structure

The facilitator guides, rather than leads the meetings, ensuring all members have the opportunity to get the most from every meeting.

The three-hour monthly meetings are divided into three sessions and follow an agreed time and format:

Present Your Business

One member each month, presents their business strategy or vision.

The group gives constructive feedback and suggests actions. The member commits to work on a few actions and outcomes are reviewed at the next meeting. All members benefit from discovering what actions did and didn’t work.

Discuss everyday issues and find solutions

Group members discuss challenging issues or opportunities with their peers.

Learn from experts - specialist workshop

Each meeting a specialist workshop is delivered by an industry expert. Topics are chosen by the members.The sessions are practical, members learn new skills and receive valuable tips to implement in their business.

Popular workshop topics:

• Branding

• Business planning and strategy

• How to apply for grants and funding

• How to work with the University of Brighton

• Human resources

• Legislation

• Marketing, telemarketing

• Motivational skills

• Negotiation and closing the deal

• Networking, customer and lead creation

• Emarketing and ecommerce

• Pricing

• Public relations

• Social networking

• Tax

• Time management

• Website optimisation

Frequency of meetings

The meetings are held once a month for three hours on the same day each month.  To get the most value and to help all the other members, it is important to attend every meeting. The time and day of each is agreed by the membership at the first meeting so that the dates can be put in the diary in advance for the whole programme.