Community vs. Networking Group: Which One is Pink Coral?
I’ve never been a fan of corporate or structured networking. It’s just not for me. But I totally get why some people and businesses thrive in that setting.
For me, it’s the feeling of being just a number. The pressure to refer people simply because I’m told to. The transactional vibe. And, heaven forbid, being put on the spot in front of a room full of people.
Even though I’m a founder and event host, I’m actually very introverted. I don’t love all eyes on me, and the thought of being caught off guard makes me anxious.
So when I started my first business in 2020, I knew I needed to get out there, meet local businesswomen, and start building relationships. The problem? I couldn’t find a networking group I actually enjoyed attending. The formality, the structure - it just wasn’t my thing.
So, being the action-taker I am (and someone who usually runs with an idea the moment it pops into my head), I started building Pink Coral Community in early 2023.
The quietly ambitious businesswoman
Since launching, I’ve attracted women like me - those who crave small, intimate chats over forced referrals. Women who want more of a community vibe and less of the salesy, pitch-fest networking groups often turn into.
The quietly ambitious businesswoman isn’t necessarily the loudest in the room or going viral online, but she’s still incredibly driven. She’s building a business around her family and life. And she wants connection, not just contacts.
Is Pink Coral networking or community?
I’ve struggled to market Pink Coral without using the word “networking.” SEO loves it, and it’s what people search for and recognise, but let’s be real - that word sends a shiver down many spines. Our meetups aren’t traditional networking. They’re more relaxed and about connection and community.
So, I’ve settled on calling it community-style networking. But where does Pink Coral fit in?
1. A Community is small and intimate
I wanted to create a space that feels cosy, safe, and non-overwhelming for busy small business owners (many of whom are mums). A place where everyone knows each other’s names and genuinely looks forward to catching up. We notice when someone is missing. We check in when we haven’t seen them in a while. We don’t get lost in a sea of faces. It’s just kind humans wanting human connection.
Networking groups, especially large ones, can feel impersonal. You can hide in the crowd and not participate. But in a community, real interaction and accountability matter.
2. A Community grows slowly and naturally
Pink Coral started with virtual coworking, then in-person coworking sessions. A space for busy women to work alongside each other and feel like they have colleagues again.
We don’t have time to waste on endless meetings, so I wanted a space where we could be productive while also building relationships - without the pressure of selling or pitching. A different way of networking, where we get to know each other’s businesses and personalities on a deeper level.
3. Networking is usually transactional
Some traditional networking groups operate on a referral model - sometimes requiring you to refer members even if you don’t know their work.
Often, you only know people by their business name and job title. And in bigger groups, you can fade into the background.
A community sees you as more than a business. We want to know about your cat, your kids, and what’s going on in your life. (Tell me your life story, and you’ll probably hear mine.)
4. A Community values you as a person, not a lead
Pink Coral is a space for everyone. I never restrict professions. You’re here for genuine relationships, not just business transactions.
I know every single member. I check in personally. I even (lightly) stalk people online before they visit one of our events so I can greet them and make them feel like they already belong.
Yes, some networking groups build community over time, but it takes a lot of energy from the leader to make that happen. Pink Coral was built on this principle from day one.
5. A networking group can make you feel lost in the crowd
Sometimes I wonder why Pink Coral isn’t growing faster. Then I remember - it was never about chasing big numbers.
This started as a passion project. A way to help local women feel less alone in business.
I’m growing Pink Coral slowly and sustainably around my life as a mum working school hours. I don’t want an online business membership with thousands of members where only the loudest voices get noticed.
Here, no one gets left behind.
6. A Community is rooted in location
One of my favourite things? Connecting local women who may never have met otherwise.
While networking groups often focus on online meetings, communities thrive on local connections. Yes, social media is great, but nothing builds trust faster than meeting face to face.
Pink Coral isn’t about chasing global reach - it’s about strengthening local ties. And my vision? To create hubs in other areas, led by brilliant local businesswomen, so we can expand our reach without losing the community feel.
So, which one are we?
We’re definitely a community (as our name suggests), but we also offer relaxed, community-style networking meetups to help you grow your professional contacts.
There’s a real lack of true community hubs for small business owners, and I’m so proud that the venues we use in Hampshire provide us with free spaces to gather and support local businesses.
It takes a village, after all!
Nikki - Founder, Pink Coral Community
Our core values
Kindness – We connect best with kind-hearted people.
Respect – We value and uplift each other.
Support – We always give more than we take.
Who are we?
Pink Coral Community is North Hampshire’s warm and welcoming hub for quietly ambitious businesswomen to find genuine connections and friendships - so you never have to feel alone in business again.
Find your people. Grow your business. Feel less alone.
