Hi there! You’ve just landed at Linked Online – the place where Business, Banter, and Brilliant Connections do a happy dance together!

Now, let me share a little tale – my story, Athole’s story. Picture this: it’s autumn 2022, and I’m in the networking doldrums. Every group I stumble upon is chock-full of those pushy sales folks who make you want to cringe. I’ve had more than my fair share of networking mishaps and, let’s be honest, I needed a breather.

Fast forward a few months, and I’m having a heart-to-heart with myself. Business development is as essential as that morning coffee, but I’d started seeing networking as a necessary evil, not a fun adventure.

Then, like a plot twist, a business friend suggests Linked Online. Curious but cautious, I have a chat with Ian.

From that chat, it’s clear: Linked Online ain’t your typical networking group. Nope, it’s a whole new world. And guess what? My gut feeling was spot-on.

Now, I might be biased (just a smidge), but the secret sauce of Linked Online? It’s the people, my friend. We’ve got a crew that sticks around, creating relationships that feel like they’ve been marinating in, well a networky marinade for years. Swing by for a guest visit, and you’ll see what I mean.

But wait, there’s more! Networking isn’t just about chasing leads and sales. Nah, it’s about having a tribe that’s got your back. Thanks to this gang, I’ve unlocked doors to opportunities I never thought existed. The beauty? It’s easy to build killer connections when you’re surrounded by stellar souls.

Hold up, though. We’re not about roping you in for a lifetime commitment. It’s your business, after all! You call the shots – as much or as little involvement as you fancy. We’re just here to set the stage, so your business can shine like the star it is.

Oh, and here’s a tasty extra treat: our LinkedIn-linked sales group. No pesky spam or awkward pitching here. It’s a smooth way to cozy up to potential clients you’d actually enjoy working with. We’ve got a knack for finding those perfect matches and guiding you through the process, but, yep, you guessed it, the choice is still yours.

So, got those curiosity gears turning? Ready to dive into the Linked Online whirlwind? Hold onto your hats, ’cause you’re about to embark on an adventure that’s part networking, part camaraderie, and all parts fantastic.

Now, who are we? Well, stick around and you’ll get to know us even better. 😉

So who are we?

We’re Athole Forbes and Ian Denny, the dynamic duo behind the genius idea of smashing together the worlds of oil rigs and IT geekdom to create the ultimate online networking extravaganza. Buckle up, because you’re about to dive headfirst into a community that’s like a double espresso for your business and as heartwarming as your gran’s secret cake recipe.

Let’s talk about Athole Forbes for a minute. Picture this: a business virtuoso who’s as comfortable navigating oil rigs as she is dodging the unpredictable weather of the corporate world, a farmers wife with 2 small boys and a wind turbine business.

Athole’s got the magic touch when it comes to steering through the choppy waters of business life. And let’s face it, if you can handle oil rigs, you can handle just about anything – even those metaphorical storms that sometimes hit your balance sheet. Resilience and kindness is key, she has both in spades.

And then there’s Ian Denny – the recovering IT geek who’s traded in his cat 5 socket crimper for a microphone (well, virtually at least).

With a mind that can code circles around the competition, Ian brings a dose of digital pizzazz to the table that’s as refreshing as a beer on a hot summer day.

He’s here to prove that geeks can network too, and they’ll do it with a touch of humour and a sprinkling of pixelated charm and huge dose of compassion for the introvert.

With as many catch phrases as a cheesy 70’s DJ, you will be amazed at his influence over the “gods of Zoom”.

Linked Online was Ian’s baby, he brought it to here.

So what’s Linked Online all about?

We’re here to zap that isolation bug right out of your business life. No more staring at your computer screen, wondering if your cat is your only true office mate. We’re here to connect you with a community that’s as supportive as your trusty morning cuppa.

We believe that business success isn’t just about the numbers – it’s about the people you meet, the connections you forge, and the laughter you share along the way.

But hey, we’re not just here to swap Dad jokes and virtual high-fives. We’re in the business of helping you find new clients too. We’ll sprinkle some of that Forbes magic and Denny tech-savviness to help you grow your client list faster than you can say “networking nirvana.”

So, whether you’re a seasoned business pro looking for your next big adventure or a fresh-faced entrepreneur dipping your toes into the shark-infested waters of business, come join our vibrant community at Linked Online.

Let’s break the ice, break some records, and break free from the shackles of business solitude – all while having a good ol’ chuckle along the way.