Human Connections in a Digital World: New Era Printing’s Networking Journey

Shropshire Chamber member New Era Printing has experienced strong returns after committing time to networking and building meaningful, mutually beneficial connections. And the benefits weren't limited to professional results; they also brought a renewed sense of personal purpose at a time when Director Chris Henderson had begun questioning his value in an increasingly digital world.

Clients gained through consistent networking

Within the first twelve months of attending Shropshire Chamber networking events, New Era gained 32 completely new accounts, all from people who had never met Chris before.

Chris Henderson said, "I was surprised and impressed by these results, and it just goes to show that networking delivers a return on involvement rather than just a return on investment. The more consistently you show up and put effort in, the more business you can gain. It's like a snowball effect."

Connections beyond the room

Word of mouth is often underestimated when networking. When you present yourself and your business well, or better yet, deliver your service or product first-hand to someone in the room, those connections can reach far beyond the event and lead to significant work.

Chris expressed, "One of our biggest jobs of 2025 came from a Chamber member who recommended us to a non-member, demonstrating the power of word of mouth and the wider conversations people have outside the room. You can't predict where referrals will come from."

Advice for those wanting to start networking

You may be questioning the value of networking and whether it's worth the time and effort. If you're willing to make that jump, New Era emphasises that networking is a long-term journey, not something that delivers instant results.

Here are a few tips Chris shared:

• Show up regularly to build recognition and trust.
• Switch up your 60-second pitch so people stay engaged.
• Highlight different services at different times - especially seasonal ones.
• After your first event, greet new people; it's an easy way to build connections early and become someone's go-to contact.
• Take advantage of the chance to bring guests so the experience feels less daunting.

How networking can influence wellbeing

Networking has supported Chris far beyond simply generating leads. It has boosted his confidence and helped him feel part of a community.

"In an increasingly digital world, where so much time is spent behind a screen, I began to doubt my professional relevance and worried that the traditional, relationship-driven approach I had built my career on was becoming outdated. However, networking helped me regain my confidence, and I realised that the human element is still essential and that people genuinely value personal service and real relationships; perhaps even more now that the online world is so saturated," Chris said.

Designing Chris' perfect networking event

When asked what his ideal networking event would look like, Chris shared:

"I would hold the event in a pub-type environment, as I feel walking into this easy, relaxed atmosphere instantly puts you at ease and naturally brings out genuine conversations. It helps you open up and get to know each other better. However, I do still enjoy a mix of formal and informal events, which is why I like to attend Shropshire Chamber events as they offer exactly this."

New Era's networking journey proves that in a digital world, human connection remains one of the most powerful tools for growth. The impacts can be both commercially significant and personally transformative; just ask Chris!

Get in touch

If you want print that's fast, bespoke, and done right the first time, contact New Era Printing at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or 01743 295881.

Shropshire Chamber offers a wide range of networking opportunities designed for all preferences. If you're unsure where to start, would like to buddy up with Chris, or simply want to learn more about what's available and how it could open doors for your business, get in touch at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..