An award-winning Aberdeen networker and entrepreneur has announced the launch of his new venture to help companies and individuals win more business.

Andrew Smith owned Aberdeen Business Network (ABN) for 14 years before the sale of his company at the end of 2022. During this time, ABN helped firms win more than £27m worth of business.

His new company, KLT Networking, will provide a range of services for companies and individuals aimed at helping networkers to win more business. KLT, which stands for ‘Know, Like, Trust’, encapsulates the key principles Andrew has learned over the years on building successful networking relationships.

KLT Networking will deliver tailored in-house solutions for companies and organisations, following an in-depth information gathering process and a comprehensive networking audit.

Additionally, individuals can access a one-to-one coaching programme as well as a unique ‘networking review and boost’, helping them gain maximum benefit from their networking.

Andrew, who lives in Aberdeen and is originally from Montrose, said: 
“Networking is undeniably my passion and I’m very excited to be helping companies and individuals achieve their goals. Over the years I’ve observed a widespread challenge – networkers trying to unlock the full potential of their networking efforts.

“In the UK, more than 50% of business-to-business sales result from networking, yet the conversion rate for winning business through established contacts stands at only 40%. Recognising this gap, I am looking forward to sharing my insights and assisting others in developing relationships that lead to successful business wins.

“Networking takes time, money and effort, but when done correctly – using a ‘before, during, after and ever after’ approach – it is a terrific long-term investment for any business.”

Andrew released a book in 2023 named ‘Cows, Not Cow: How To Make Your Business Networking Really Work’. The book shares his insights from organising more than 300 networking events and guides readers through the entire networking process – before, during, after and the follow-up.

Andrew also runs a podcast with John Mellis, Smooth Radio host and managing director of podcasting firm, Mellis Media. The podcast, sharing the same title as his book, has 30 episodes and has been running for more than two years.

Andrew was named Entrepreneurial Supporter of the Year in the 2014 Grampian Awards for Business Excellence and has also earned the title of Grampian Business Networker of the Year.

KeyFacts Energy news: Aberdeen Focus