5 Mins With

5 Mins With: Jackie Groundsell

After almost 25 years of running a thriving network for businesswomen, Jackie Groundsell has become one of the most recognisable and respected faces in our local business community – and not just because of her signature magenta hair! Known for her energy, warmth and straight-talking advice, she’s helped countless women build confidence, connections and successful businesses.

We caught up with the former ABBBAs judge to tap into her wealth of networking wisdom and discover what truly makes meaningful connections last…

Jackie, how would you describe what you do and what you are most passionate about?

My biggest passion is supporting people, women in particular. I love being able to make connections for them and I have a radio show supporting businesswomen. It’s slightly tongue in cheek, but I’m known as the queen of connections!

You were a judge at last year’s ABBBAs. How did you find the experience?

I was honoured to be invited. It was fascinating to see what prompted people to get started, I loved every minute of it.

Was there anything that stood out to you about the ABBBAs or the businesses you met?

The passion everyone had for what they were striving to achieve and had already achieved. I was thrilled to be part of that because the ABBBAs is an awesome event on the annual Bromley calendar.

You’re incredibly active in the local community. Why is community so important to you?

I was chair of Beckenham Business Association for ten years so supporting local means a lot. I love talking to people and finding out about them. My family used to call me ‘nosy’, but it’s not, I’m genuinely interested in what people do day to day and if I can help them in any direction. I’m also on the Broad of Beckenham Town Centre Team which also helps me to keep my finger on the Town pulse.

Tell us a bit about TWC Business Beat Radio – your weekly radio show.

Due to the connections that I’ve been fortunate to make, I have some amazing guests on the show. My most recent guest shared with us her entire journey from when she was working in corporate and how that felt, right through to where she is today and what her future plans are. My guests also receive advertising opportunities as the shows are recorded and published on our website and all major podcast platforms.

You’ve been running 12:30 The Women’s Company for over 20 years. Why do you think it has stood the test of time?

We grew very organically. I believe it’s still going because people always need connections and opportunities to build sound, trustworthy business relationships.

What do you think makes good networking genuinely valuable?

It’s important to build relationships. Go along and try them – you’ll soon know if it’s going to work for you. Start attending regularly too – building relationships doesn’t happen in one encounter.

You’ve met thousands of local business owners over the years – what helps businesses thrive locally?

Relationships are so important. You need to know your community well. Which is why Life In...Magazines are a crucial thing – building a community through the printed world.

Outside of work and community projects, how do you like to switch off?

I love gardening. I love my garden and was especially thankful for it during Covid. Also, of course, time with my amazing family.

What advice would you give to someone thinking about getting more involved in the Bromley business community?

Networking can be a very slow burn, but just get out there and as I say, develop relationships and get in touch if help is needed with that.

What does community mean to you?

Everything. It’s important to see how people are developing and what they can do. Not just on a business level, but also on a personal level. For example, one of my neighbours had problems with a tree so I was able to make a good connection with the council for her.

Where can people find you?

The website is www.1230.co.uk and the links to all the podcasts and shows are there, as well as all socials.