Networking is the lifeblood of small business in New Zealand. BNI is a testament to that, with collectively our local chapters generating over $69 million in “Thank You For Closed Business” from January 2014 to 2015. This year we expect it will be far greater as we hope more of you can track what business you’re doing.
In just a couple of weeks a very important date in BNI’s calendar is coming up – New Zealand National Networking Week. It takes place this year from Monday the 23rd till Friday the 27th of March.
Networking Weeks are international initiatives that take place all over the globe, but this is only the second time we have scheduled one in New Zealand.
What’s networking week all about?
Networking Week this year will be focused on small businesses and their important role in the larger economy. Small businesses need to come together to form a referral economy that gives back to the community while driving business forward. This is even more apparent in 2015 when small businesses are faced with greater competition from online operators and increased costs.
During the week we want to focus on how businesses can make collaboration – which is the foundation for effective business networking – a core value to strengthen their businesses and improve profitability.
What can I do?
We want to build awareness of Networking Week and need your help to do this. Here are some things your chapter can do to make this Week a hit:
- Hold a special Visitors’ Day during the week. Invite friends, family members, colleagues or clients to a special meeting that will be run during the week. This is a chance for non-members to sample a BNI chapter meeting, have the opportunity to learn about BNI and share in the networking experience. If your chapter hasn’t planned a day for this week and sent out visitor invites, do that this week.
- Within your chapter discuss and plan other special initiatives that you can do for National Networking Week. It’s a great opportunity to try something different.
A special message from BNI’s founder
During the week we have a special video from BNI founder Dr Ivan Misner, recorded for our National Networking Week. We’ll send this video to your leadership team soon attached to an email with details about the address and an intro to be read out prior to screening the video. Make sure your chapter is set up with the devices necessary to screen it.
We’re excited about the second NZ National Business Networking Week and don’t forget to share your initiatives and experiences with us on the BNI Facebook page – let’s all make the week one to remember.
