As someone who started my own travel business following redundancy during the pandemic, I knew that professional networking was crucial for developing new contacts and business growth. Initially, networking was all on Zoom, which was great for building confidence and starting to establish rapport and relationships. However, nothing beats meeting people face-to-face, and our chapter, BNI Boardwalk, was the first in Hampshire to return to in-person meetings. 

Apart from being a fantastic group of people, I feel our chapter strikes the perfect balance between professionalism and humor. We all enjoy a bit of banter, which has fostered strong professional and personal relationships, reflected in the volume of business we refer to each other. Last year, we passed over £2 million in referrals, and this year, we have already exceeded £1 million since April 1. 

Don’t view networking as a cost; see it as an essential part of your marketing strategy.