Community vs. Networking Group: Which One is Pink Coral?
I’ve never been a fan of the more traditional, corporate-style networking. It’s just not for me. But to be clear – I’m not against networking. I genuinely believe in the power of building connections to grow your business.
It’s just that, for me, the format didn’t work.
It was the feeling of being just another face in the room. The pressure to refer people simply because I was told to. The transactional tone. And heaven forbid, being put on the spot in front of a room full of strangers.
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 gives me that heart-thudding anxiety a few of you might recognise.
When I started my first business back in 2020, I knew I needed to meet other local businesswomen. I wanted connection, support, and a bit of human chat throughout my day. But I couldn’t find a networking space that felt right for me. The structure and formality just didn’t fit.
So – being the action-taker I am (read: “acts fast on gut instinct”) – I created Pink Coral Community in early 2023.
The quietly ambitious businesswoman
Since launching, I’ve attracted women a lot like me – quietly ambitious types who want more meaningful conversations and less of the salesy, pitch-fest feel some networking groups can unintentionally fall into.
They’re building their business around their life, not the other way around. They don’t need flashy intros or big crowds – just connection, conversation, and community.
Is Pink Coral a networking group or a community?
It’’s a question I’ve struggled to answer… until now! Because while we do network, it doesn’t look like the traditional version most people expect. SEO loves the word “networking,” and it’s what many are Googling when they go looking for something like this – but let’s be honest, that word can make people shudder.
So, I’ve landed on this: Pink Coral is a community that offers relaxed, community-style networking.
Here’s how we do things differently:
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.
Some networking groups, (especially large ones) can feel a little impersonal. It’s easy to sit on the edge and not get involved. But in a community, there’s accountability, connection, and real care for one another.
2. A Community grows slowly and naturally
Pink Coral started with virtual coworking, which evolved into in-person coworking and networking. A natural evolution, built on real human needs.
We’re all short on time, so we keep things simple. No endless meetings, no draining prep. Just space to connect and get stuff done – with no pressure to sell or pitch. It’s networking, but not as you know it.
3. A community values people, not just professions
In some structured groups, there’s a lot of emphasis on referrals and job titles – which works for many, but isn’t for everyone.
At Pink Coral, we want to know your cat’s name (mine’s called Cleo), your kid’s favourite snack, and how you’re really feeling about that new launch. We connect as people first, business owners second.
4. A Community values you as a person, not a lead
We don’t restrict who can join based on industry. There are no “slots” to fill. If you’re kind, supportive and want to grow your business in an authentic way, there’s a seat for you.
I make a point to get to know every single member – usually with a cheeky bit of online stalking first – so when you show up to your first event, it already feels like you 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 community isn’t about numbers
Sometimes I wonder why Pink Coral isn’t growing faster… and then I remember: that was never the goal.
This isn’t about going viral or scaling for the sake of it. It’s about helping local women feel less alone in business.
I’m growing this slowly and sustainably around school hours and family life – and I’m proud of that. Quality over quantity, always.
6. A Community is rooted in location
One of my favourite things? Connecting women who live minutes from each other who may never have met otherwise.
While some networking groups focus heavily on online growth or global reach, we’re about building local connections and strengthening our immediate circles. There’s something special about meeting face to face – and we’re lucky to have amazing Hampshire venues that support us with free space to do just that.
So, which one are we?
We’re a community, first and foremost.
But yes – we also offer relaxed, no-pressure networking that actually feels good.
If traditional networking works for you, amazing! I love that it exists in so many different forms. But if you’re looking for something a little softer, a little slower, and a lot more human – that’s where Pink Coral shines.
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 friendly in-person network and community for quietly ambitious women like you — offering real connection, local support and a supportive space to grow your business.
Find your people. Build your network. Grow your business.
