How many hours should you be networking each week?
There’s no right answer to this, however BNI’s research has shown that people who say they’re successful at networking spend on average at least six-and-a-half hours networking. People who say that networking doesn’t work for them, on the other hand, surprise…spend less than two hours networking. This is not to say that successful networkers have to go beyond weekly BNI meetings, however for some people networking after hours – especially in social situations – improves their networking opportunities.
BNI Nelson/Marlborough Regional Director Consultant, Stephanie Millar, says she always keeps this research in the back of her mind when she sets up networking events for her region. She believes it is vital that members also get out and network outside of their regular BNI meetings.
What are the advantages of networking socially outside of meetings?
Stephanie says there are a number of advantages, especially when members from a number of different chapters come together:
- It’s a chance to chat and exchange notes on what different chapters are doing and what works well or could be improved. It’s also a chance to think about larger events involving multiple chapters.
- It’s an opportunity to see what professions are represented or not represented in your chapter and plan changes accordingly – which can lead to increased membership.
- It allows you to invite visitors who might be a bit intimidated by official meetings to meet chapter members in a relaxed setting – it’s a great ice-breaker and could lead to new sign-ups or confirmed attendance at your next meeting.
Even if a social event involves only your chapter, it’s still an opportunity for members to get to know each other in a more relaxed and fun environment.
With New Zealand National Networking Week on at the end of month, it could be an ideal time to plan some sort of afterhours get together for your chapter. It doesn’t have to be anything too elaborate; just a meeting at a café or bar could be the perfect social event. If you haven’t done this for a while (or have never done it) then plan a date.
Networking Week is all about professionals collaborating to grow their businesses and improve the community. How about reaching out to other business associations or community groups in your local area and inviting them to a social event that you put on?
If you’re doing anything interesting for Networking Week or putting on any special after 5 or social events, don’t forget to share that with us with photos on our Facebook page. We’re always excited to see what different chapters are doing up and down the country.
