In this conversation, Jamie and Gillian explore the concept that only a small percentage of people are ready to buy at any given time and how to effectively engage with the larger audience that isn't immediately interested. Takeaways:

• Networking should focus on building relationships, not just sales.
• Only 3% of people are ready to buy at any moment.
• Desperation in networking can repel potential clients.
• Asking 'Who do you know that needs this?' is more effective than pitching.
• Preparation and presenting your best self is crucial for networking success.
• Engaging conversations are built on asking good questions.
• Being interested in others makes you more memorable.
• Specificity in requests increases the likelihood of referrals.
• Networking is a skill that can be learned and improved.
• Follow up after networking events to solidify connections.

00:00 The Networking Dilemma: Desperation vs. Connection02:23 Understanding the 3%: The Importance of the 97%04:48 Building Relationships: The Art of Networking07:28 Creating Memorable Impressions09:55 The Right State: Preparing for Networking Success12:18 Asking the Right Questions: Engaging Conversations14:45 Wrapping Up: Key Takeaways for Effective Networking

In this episode, Gillian Schofield and Jamie Stewart have a straight-talking conversation about a trap so many business owners fall into... trying to do it all on their own.If you’ve ever told yourself, “I’ll just start my own business, get some clients, and manage everything myself,” this one’s for you. We’ve both been there. We’ve both worked late into the night, hit bottlenecks, and felt the pressure of keeping all the plates spinning.We talk about the moment you realise that doing everything yourself might be holding you back. From the hidden costs of doing too much, to the social isolation that creeps in when you’re always working alone, we share the reality behind self-employment that no one puts on LinkedIn.You’ll hear us talk about when to bring in help, how to spot when you’ve hit your ceiling, and why building a support network isn’t just helpful... it’s necessary. Whether you’re starting out or you’re a few years in and still carrying the weight of everything, this conversation will give you plenty to think about.Real stories. Practical ideas. No nonsense.00:00 Starting a Business on a Budget04:36 Navigating Self-Employment Challenges09:25 Entrepreneurial Support and Networking10:16 "Seizing Opportunities Through Collaboration"13:47 Realistic Billable Hours Challenge17:02 "Business Solutions Require Human Connection"20:18 Benefits of Delegating Tasks25:01 Outsourcing and Budget Planning30:15 Delegating Low-Value Tasks31:14 "Subscribe to Scale Business"

The Buffalo Sessions — Episode: Networking is Broken

Watch this before your next networking event.

Jamie Stewart is joined by first-time co-host Gillian Schofield for a raw, honest, and practical conversation about why traditional networking doesn’t work — and what to do instead.

In this episode:

Why most people approach networking the wrong way

The Networking Trap and how to escape it

How Circle Networks flips the script from “pitching” to relationship building

Why chasing 1-to-1s with everyone is a waste of time

The power of long-term collaboration over quick wins

How to build a referral team who actually sends you business

What real networking success looks like — with stories that prove it

Key takeaways:

Stop going to events just to sell.

Build friendships first — business follows.

A single great connection beats a dozen forgettable ones.

Strategic follow-up wins over frantic follow-up.

Warm introductions are more valuable than email intros.

00:00 Rethinking Business Networking Labels

04:31 "Networking: Beyond Client Hunting"

07:24 Building Trust Before Business

12:11 "Trap of Low Ticket Offers"

14:33 "Rethinking Networking for Relationships"

17:03 Integrate Networking with Marketing

20:15 Unlocking Networking Potential on LinkedIn

25:43 Friendship vs. Work Priorities

26:53 "Thanks for Listening"

Find out more about Circle Networks and grab your free trial here https://circlenetworks.co.uk/free-trial