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The Power of Connection: Kicking Off 2025 with Women in Business Northern Ireland. New Year, New Opportunities.

Happy New Year! It’s officially 2025, and if you’re anything like me, you’re feeling excitement, ambition, and motivation for the year ahead. The Digg Podcast is back, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to kick off the year with an inspiring conversation about career growth, networking, and personal development.

Caroline O'Neill Digg Podcast Interviewing Lorraine Acheson Women In Business Northern Ireland
Caroline O'Neill and Lorraine Acheson during the recording of their Digg Podcast episode in Belfast

In my latest episode of the Digg Podcast, I am joined by Lorraine Acheson, Managing Director of Women in Business Northern Ireland and Deputy CEO of the WIB Group. Lorraine is a champion for women in the workplace, and today, we’re talking about how connections can shape careers, open doors, and help us achieve our goals.


The Magic of Speaking Your Dreams Out Loud

In 2018, I attended my first Women in Business Northern Ireland event. Sitting in the audience, I thought, “I’d love to be up there one day.” It was just a fleeting thought, but I spoke it out loud to my mom, who simply said, “You will.” Fast forward to today, and I’ve not only spoken at Women in Business Northern Ireland events—I’ve hosted them. And now, we’re launching The Digg Podcast’s partnership with the Women in Business Northern Ireland Awards 2025!


Lorraine had a similar experience in 2014. Attending an event at Stormont, she saw the speakers on stage and thought, “I want to be up there.” Years later, she’s leading the very organisation that inspired her.


Key takeaway? Say your dreams out loud. Speak them into existence. When you set an intention, you start moving toward it.


The Importance of Networking and Career Connections

Networking is one of the most powerful tools for career and business growth. Connections open doors, create opportunities, and help us grow—both professionally and personally.

Lorraine shared how every step of her career was built through connections. Moving to Australia with no contacts, she built her professional network from scratch. She emphasized how small interactions—like a simple coffee meeting—can lead to life-changing opportunities.

But networking isn’t just about business. It’s about having a strong support system. Lorraine’s personal experience during her husband’s accident in 2021 showed her just how vital her network was. Friends and professional connections stepped in, offering help when she needed it most.


How to Build a Strong Network in 2025

If you’re ready to expand your network but aren’t sure where to start, here are Lorraine’s actionable tips:


Set an intention:

Why do you want to grow your network? Are you looking for career opportunities, new business leads, or simply inspiration?


Find the right events:

Join a network like Women in Business Northern Ireland and commit to attending key events.


Set realistic networking goals:

Attend at least three events in the first six months or schedule coffee meetings with two new people.


Engage when you arrive:

Speak with at least three new people at each event. Ask open-ended questions like “What brought you here today?"


Follow up:

Connect on LinkedIn, send a quick thank-you message, and schedule follow-up conversations.


Pro Tip:

If networking feels intimidating, start small. A simple introduction can lead to incredible opportunities!


Why the Women in Business Northern Ireland Awards Matter

If you’re a woman in business, you deserve to be celebrated. Too often, we move from one achievement to the next without acknowledging our growth. The Women in Business Northern Ireland Awards provide the perfect opportunity to stop, reflect, and be recognised for your success.


With 13 award categories, there’s a place for every businesswoman, entrepreneur, and leader. Categories include:

  • Young Businesswoman of the Year

  • Green Business of the Year

  • Marketing Excellence Award

  • Innovation Award

  • Apprentice of the Year


But what makes these awards truly special is the journey. Women in Business Northern Ireland offers free webinars on how to craft a winning entry and a finalist lunch where nominees connect and celebrate before the big night.


Key Dates:


Women in Business Northern Ireland Awards:

March 13, 2025


Women in Business Northern Ireland Awards Application Deadline:

Now Closed


Step Into 2025 with Confidence. Whether it’s networking, career growth, or business expansion, taking action is key in 2025. The right connections can lead to new opportunities, and the Women in Business Northern Ireland Awards can give you the recognition you deserve.


🔗 Want to learn more about Women in Business Northern Ireland and how to join? Find out more by clicking this link! With over 10,000 members, you’ll find a supportive community that champions women at every stage of their careers.


Check out all the episodes of The Digg Podcast here .


Let’s make 2025 the year we step forward with confidence, ambition, and the power of connection!

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