At the age of 21 in 2002, I was one of the youngest real estate agents in New Zealand
My journey with BNI started when I was in my 20s. I was invited into BNI by a departing member of the company I had started working for – Property Brokers. Now reflecting seven years later, I can say I’ve grown enormously thanks to the organisation.
Ritesh Verma, Member of BNI Whanganui and agent for Property Brokers
Business in a small town – connections are vital
Our BNI chapter is in Wanganui, which is a small town of only about 42,000 people. Even though our chapter is relatively small having only about 20 members, in a place like Whanganui that means that collectively we know pretty much everyone in the business community in our town. More importantly everyone knows me.
Why is this important? Because there is a saying that is becoming more common in business: It’s not who you know, it’s who knows you. These days it’s all about building your personal brand as a part of your business or industry so people associate your name with the work you do.
Building my brand through BNI
BNI is incredible for building your personal brand and ensuring you are known in your local business community. In Whanganui if people get together at a school event, a BBQ or a rugby function and they discuss property invariably my name comes up. A lot of this is due to BNI.
Our 20 members operate like 20 salespeople working for me consistently to get me business. It’s not just business that BNI has brought me however. It’s been incredible for personal development.
Personal and professional development
When I first joined BNI I was surrounded by seasoned business professionals. Honestly, I wondered if I should even be there. I dreaded getting up and speaking every week and thought of excuses not to go. Because I knew how important it was for my business, I couldn’t drop out.
Over time I developed my confidence and public speaking. Now I regularly speak to large crowds including at real estate conferences with over 400 people in the crowd. Not only has BNI given me business, it has given me confidence that I will take with me no matter where I go in the future.
Recognition thanks to BNI!
This confidence has also helped me with new clients. BNI puts me in front of a lot of people and through referrals I am seen to have credibility as a business person working in the property industry. This has led to more sales and recognition in my company. This year I won an award for being the number 1 agent out of our whole company nationwide.
I couldn’t have done it without BNI and the support of my chapter. Achieving such a huge award from Property Brokers, and being from a region the size of Wanganui is no mean feat.
Ritesh Verma, Member of BNI Whanganui and agent for Property Brokers
