Last week, we hosted a networking event that felt very different from the usual business meet-ups. No presentations. No name badges. No pressure to sell.
Together with Impactful Community CIC, in partnership with PBLINK – Polish Business Link, we brought nearly twenty business owners and professionals from across the UK to London for a clay pigeon shooting session.
The idea was simple: take people out of the boardroom and give them space to connect as humans first.
As co-organiser Jacek Zawieracz shared on the day:
“People don’t build trust by exchanging business cards. Trust grows when you share moments, challenges, and a bit of laughter together.”
Stepping Outside the Comfort Zone — Together
From the moment everyone arrived, there was a mix of excitement and nerves. For many, it was their first time holding a firearm. That shared uncertainty broke the ice instantly.
People encouraged one another, laughed at missed shots, and celebrated every small win. Trying something new together created an immediate sense of openness and support.
Each time someone stepped up to shoot, their confidence grew. There was focus, friendly competition, and real pride — not just in hitting the clay, but in giving it a go.
Different Industries, Shared Challenges
The group reflected the diversity of the PBLINK community. Lawyers, property and mortgage specialists, IT professionals, finance and security experts, sports entrepreneurs, and small business owners all stood side by side.
Different sectors, different backgrounds — yet very similar challenges, ambitions, and motivations. That common ground made conversations easy and honest.
When Conversation Flows Naturally
While one person was shooting, others gathered in small, constantly changing groups. Conversations started with the experience itself and quickly moved into business life.
People spoke openly about the realities of running a business, shared ideas, exchanged advice, and supported one another — without sales pitches or forced networking.
As Jacek put it:
“When people feel comfortable being themselves, business conversations take care of themselves.”
Building Real Connection
By the end of the day, the shift in energy was clear. Initial nerves had turned into laughter, trust, and genuine connection.
We carried that atmosphere to the pub afterwards, where conversations continued and relationships formed on the shooting range were strengthened even further.
What This Means for PBLINK
At PBLINK, we believe networking is about relationships, not transactions. The strongest connections grow when people feel relaxed, respected, and understood.
This event was just the beginning. Together with Impactful Community CIC, we’ll continue creating experiences that bring people together in meaningful, human ways — supporting professional growth while also looking after personal wellbeing.
More joint events are planned for May / June 2026, with limited spaces to keep them personal, high-quality, and focused on real connection.
