Recently as part of NZ Networking Week, BNI Larnach had a huge turnout of visitors to a special event scheduled as part of our usual weekly networking meeting. The aim of the meeting was for visitors to participate and see networking in action, so they could begin to learn about those skills that will assist them in their future or current careers.
We aren’t taught how to network in colleges and universities in New Zealand and the rest of the world, so the aim of our meeting during National Networking Week was to introduce the concept of networking to those that are young and entering the workforce, in colleges and tertiary education, or new to business. This included showing a special video that discussed BNI and networking with members and guests during the event.
We had around 40 visitors attend, which is an incredible number! The reason we had such a large number turn up was a result of a very proactive Leadership Team. They understood that NZ Networking Week was a great opportunity for a special event so they approached the chapter with the idea of creating a special meeting. Guest speakers included Dougal McGowan, Chief Executive of Otago Chamber of Commerce and Dunedin Mayor Dave Cull.
The goal of this year’s Networking Week was to recognise and celebrate the role that networking plays in the development and success of businesses around the country. NZ Networking Week was about sharing with others the value and power of networking for growing business. For this reason we focused on anyone who was interested in networking but didn’t have the opportunity to meet other people. This included those new to business, younger people and sole traders.
We were overwhelmed by the incredible mix of businesses that turned up to our special event. We had at least half a dozen new businesses that were less than a year old. We had many small businesses, and a mix of young people in their early to mid-20s that were just starting out on their business journey.
The visitors commented on how impressed they were, with the commitment of members to the passing of referrals.
Personally, I was particularly pleased that one visitor I had encouraged a number of times to come along to BNI, was able to make the event. He confirmed at the last minute and was very surprised and impressed by the number and quality of people that came along. He’ll be coming back and the chapter had other confirmed visitors for next week’s meeting.
I want to congratulate BNI Larnach’s Leadership Team for taking the materials available to us from BNI and driving the event. It really invigorated the chapter. Everyone benefitted and our 33 members are sure to grow thanks to the special event. We’ll be doing more special events in the future and I recommend other chapters do the same.
Denise Robinson, Director Consultant for BNI Larnach
