This month’s networking spotlight is … The Third Wednesday Club, venue Prezzo, High Street, Crawley.
One of my favourite duties as Commissioning Editor of Sussex Exclusive is to get out and network, with a remit to visit at least one networking group every month. Not only is this good for spreading local awareness of my newly launched book, but it also reconnects me with people I have not seen for some time, as well as many lovely new faces. When you’re in the middle of writing a book, you spend most of your time, pen in hand pad full of scribbles, gazing out of the window or hunched over your laptop clattering at the keys. So, my first visit was to Crawley, our January town of the month.
The Third Wednesday Club, as described by the organiser, Sam Murray
Third Wednesday Club – Designed for Professional Services employees. A unique networking opportunity for professional services employees within the Crawley and Gatwick area, launched in June 2023 by Crawley Town Centre BID and now reintroduced, since October 2025, by Crawley and Gatwick Chamber of Commerce (CGC CO Ltd), the new business organisation set up to serve local businesses. It is networking but with a difference! Third Wednesday Club connects junior staff with senior leaders, builds confidence, and creates lasting business relationships. It grew in popularity quickly and was a regular date in many calendars.
“Designed to bring new talent and experienced professionals together, it’s a place to share knowledge, pick up new skills and experience and have a lot of fun in the process!”
Abi Bowden, Local Director, Metro Bank
Details
- Monthly, informal networking with welcome drinks and light buffet.
- Held every third Wednesday, 5-7 pm, at local hospitality venues.
- Attendance ranges from 20-50 participants.
- Free to attend – with membership of Crawley Gatwick Chamber Company Ltd.
Highlights
- Fun, interactive challenges to win the “Rolling Trophy.”
- Networking that nurtures personal and professional growth.
- Opportunities to meet for trophy exchange before the following month.
- It’s relaxed and fun – and sometimes comes with additional prizes!
My first Impressions…
When you walk into a lovely, nicely lit venue and you’re greeted with a name badge describing you as ‘Award Winning Author and Marketing Goddess, ’ it’s a sign you’re in for a good evening, and I most certainly was. I enjoyed every minute of it.
Why?
I was made to feel welcome immediately by Wendy Bell, the most bubbly, warm, and natural networker I have ever met, and Sam, another friendly and engaging woman. In fact, every person I chatted to was smiling and enthusiastic. We had conversations over the one-sided monologues, which can put a spoke in proceedings at some networking events, best buried under the patio. I chatted at length with Action Coach, Vern Dercksen about marketing, branding and AI, another lovely and unexpected touch. I think I have stayed away from networking for too long, but then I have been bogged down in the written word over the spoken one.
What I had not expected was the lovely and plentiful food that Prezzo put on and the fact that our team won the trophy for the task, which was to create an alternative character for the Christmas period. I must confess I am not usually a fan of group tasks, but this was enjoyable, enhanced by the fact we won the trophy and a large box of chocolates.
I made some great contacts and had a thoroughly enjoyable evening. The only downside was the music, which was a constant hum in the background, not great if you struggle to hear with background noise.
The acid test…would I return?
Definitely! Might even make it a regular fixture if Wendy and Sam will have me back.
About Dee Blick FCIM
Dee has just written her fifth marketing book, which debuted at No 1 in six categories on Amazon. With You’re the Best! How to Build an Authentic and Magnetic Personal Brand, Dee shows you step by step how you can move from The Seeker to The Sought After. Chapters include Why being authentic is the ace up your sleeve, building your business brand alongside your personal brand, overcoming fear of failure, how to create a powerful brand plan and how to secure content that underpins your influence and expertise. Dee shares many examples of her award-winning templates in her usual conversational style. You can buy Dee’s book on Amazon and contact her at dee@themarketinggym.org
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