Bestselling author and business networking expert Stefan Thomas is set to take the stage as a keynote speaker at the gdb Diamond Experts Conference 2025.
Organised by Gatwick Diamond Business (gbd), the conference, now in its fourth year, brings together professionals from across the region for a dynamic day of learning, networking, and connection, showcasing the strength and innovation of the local business community.
“I’m really excited to be part of this event,” said Stefan. “I’ve done many events with Gatwick Diamond Business over the years, and they’re always brilliant, packed with energy, fantastic people and real opportunities to connect. If you want to meet great businesses from the region and beyond, this is the place to be.”
Stefan, who is widely known for his practical insight and down-to-earth delivery, will present a keynote titled “Conversations aren’t soft skills, they’re revenue channels.” In this session, he will explore how everyday conversations can become consistent sources of enquiries, referrals and new clients.
Stefan’s best selling book ‘Business Networking For Dummies’ was published more than a decade ago and he’s still educating business owners to network effectively and to convert small conversations into sales. He has also written two other books: ‘Win The Room’ with co-author Wes Linden and ‘Instant Networking’ and he has a fourth book in production which will be published next year.
He started his career as an estate agent and then went on to become integral to a major national small business networking company travelling up and down the UK speaking at networking events and also supporting group leaders. Later he started his own business and today he runs an invitation-only networking group which meets online called Connect and it involves entrepreneurs from across the UK and overseas. Members meet up for social gatherings all across the UK so that they can meet each other in person. He also trains people to be professional paid speakers as well as supporting teams to improve their networking, communication and sales skills. He will be sharing some of that knowledge at this business event.
“I’ll be sharing strategies on how to start the right conversations, how to recognise when someone is ready to buy, and how to convert those interactions into real business. It’s about turning networking from something people feel they ‘should do’ into something that actually delivers results.”
Stefan’s expertise has been sought by major organisations including BT, Lloyds Bank and the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants. His approach helps business owners and professionals become more confident networkers, without needing to be pushy or overly sales-focused.
The gdb Diamond Experts Conference runs from 8:15am to 2:30pm, featuring expert-led talks, trade stands and valuable opportunities to build meaningful business connections, all set within the inspirational surroundings of Roffey Park Institute in Horsham.
Other speakers include Matt Garman, who will share his unconventional approaches to leadership, and Paul Levy, who will explore how generative AI can support creativity and efficiency in business.
The event takes place on Friday 20th June. For more information about Stefan Thomas, visit www.stefanthomas.biz.
