Frequently Asked Questions

I’m only starting my career, is Schmooze for me?Yes, it is- the Schmooze Young Professional Group has been established just for people like you.  It is open to any young professional and has monthly workshops and a mentoring programme which draws from the more experienced members of Schmooze. We offer great networking and events that are designed to give you key skills to support the early stages of your career.

Who joins the network?
Schmooze has over 350 members and is growing rapidly. The SYPG has young professional members from all professions so it’s a great way to get contacts from a wide range and make new friends.  We have Uni students and graduates from government departments as well as people working in the Arts and the private sector!

What are your events like?
Schmooze events are always positive, welcoming and lively. Our members are very outgoing, enjoying meeting new people and make new faces feel right at home. Our staff always make sure that everyone enjoys themselves and is introduced around. The Social Network events are run by members, so are not Schmooze events strictly speaking, but the aim is the same- to make new contacts, enrich our opportunities and enjoys ourselves in the process.

How do I join?That’s easy, choose your membership type and how long you want to join for (six or 12 months). Using the online form you can pay your membership fee, and provide your  entry for our Member database that outlines your key contact details and a paragraph about your expertise and interests to the other members. You’ll be contacted soon after by one of the Schmooze team and given access to the Members Lounge area of the site. If you are claiming the full-time student discount you MUST give proof of studying Full-Time. If you are also working full-time you must pay the regular rate- sorry!

What happens if I don’t like the network?If you are unsatisfied with your experience within three months of joining, we will refund you on a pro rata basis. This has never happened yet though!

Who’s behind the network?
Schmooze was founded in 2003 by Phillip Jones with the aim of developing a network based on collaboration, openness and delivered with style. The SYPG is run by a Council of volunteers who are all young professionals themselves led by Ms Morgan Ackroyd. You can find out more about them on the Who’s Who page. Schmooze is owned by Phillip Jones and is ably assisted by several volunteer and casual assistants who are passionate about what Schmooze is about. They help run the events, provide concierge services to our members, staff the registration desks and provide admin support. We also have members who help source presenters to deliver our professional development activities.

Why must I be a member to attend an event? Can other people come?
We have to pay the bills, so the membership fees help with that- otherwise we couldn’t offer all the events and services we do! You have to be a member to attend our events or an accompanied guest of a member. Our membership fee is very cheap in comparison- especially as mostly you don’t have to pay for entry to most events or even your drinks!

How can I promote my events to the members?
By using the calendar on this website. For every event you add to the Calendar you spend one of your Member Passes. An event can stay on the site for up to 30 days.