Link4What?

Many of our customers know that we are part of an organisation called Link4Growth. And many have asked us about it – we’ve given away a few dozen copies of the book that explains it all.

It’s been good to see the meetings that we host here twice a month grow from two or three loyal regulars to the shop full of interested people buzzing  with conversation that we had here last night.

But still there is a suspicion amongst some people as to what it’s about and why we’ve chosen to get involved in the way that we have. This blog post isn’t about Link4Growth official “policy” or “structure” – it’s a simple paragraph or two about why we’ve found it valuable, and why you might consider getting involved.

Years ago people grew up in the same street – or nearby – as the rest of their family. Aunties, grandparents, cousins and siblings were on hand. People often had “jobs for life” that meant friends for much of life too. The local pub on the corner of the street was somewhere to meet friends, as was the community centre or library.

Nowadays people move around for work, separating them from family and friends. They are more likely to enjoy a drink at home on the sofa, and community centres and libraries are suffering from cutbacks in funding. The other big source of community – church and other faith groups – is in decline in many areas. People are isolated in their own homes, lonely and alone.

Link4Growth is doing many things but the “hook” for us was rebuilding community. Creating space for people to meet and talk. No agenda, no fee, just a chance to chat, enjoy a good conversation, connect and make friends.

I was a massive sceptic to begin with.

Why would someone start something like this? What’s in it for them? How much is it going to cost me and is it actually some kind of “cult” in disguise?

Since finding out more I’ve become convinced that this is something our society needs desperately. On a personal level I’ve met some great people, had a lot of fun, learned loads and as a bonus gained a lot of new skills and advice for my business. I’ve travelled to a few meetings around the area and further afield and discovered that wherever I go the situation is the same. People are looking for somewhere to go, to meet and make friends. To feel part of a community, supported and valued.

Link4Growth is an umbrella organisation. Here at The Kitchen we’re part of Link4Business and I know for a fact that the advice and contacts I’ve received and made have been invaluable. This new website – built by Nish who I met at Link4Growth. Check out his own site here. Social media and marketing skills – how to use new apps and media – tips picked up over a shandy at Link4Drinks. Advice from other coffee shop owners shared as we build together the Coffee Shop Union. And confidence, personal development and self awareness advanced in leaps and bounds through conversations with other like minded people who feel things can be better than they are.

I may go on about it a bit too much. In the way a grandmother can’t stop talking about a new baby perhaps. Or a bit like when you get a new job or car and want to talk about it with enthusiasm because of the way it’s changed or helped you in your life. But if anything I’ve said has sparked your interest and you’d like to find out more why not pop in to one of our get togethers?

Last night someone came along to support their partner who felt it might benefit their small business. By the end of the evening they too could see the strength and benefits of what L4G is doing and wanted to sign up too!

We meet on the first Monday of the month at 5.50pm and the third Tuesday at 10.00am here in The Kitchen. But there are dozens of meetings all over the country and it’s spreading internationally too. Meetings usually take place in independent coffee shops and pubs – boosting their income and profile within the community too.

If you’re interested you can find out more here  – hope to see you sooooooooooon!