This morning, I dragged myself out of bed to attend a 7.30 am session for a soon-to-be-launched chapter of a global networking organization, Business Network International. This is my 2nd networking session in 2 weeks - a personal record for a born wallflower!
Aside from the usual exchange of business cards and word-of-mouth referrals, this organization is interesting because it functions in small groups limited to one member per profession. This means that if Chapter X already has a member who is an insurance agent, another insurance agent cannot join that chapter. He or she must look for another chapter where the insurance industry is not yet represented. The idea is to minimize conflict of interest. Not a bad business idea.
For more info on the organization, check out www.bni.com.sg. Meetings are weekly affairs held in the CBD area. Late risers need not apply. ;)
If you prefer to network among ladies only, a good organization to explore would be the Singapore Business & Professional Women's Association. They run networking events, talks and fundraising-for-a-good-cause activities. They even give away scholarship money to deserving but needy students. Have a look at www.sbpwa.org.sg.
As to the benefits of organized networking, I can attest that it definitely is not a waste of time. Just today, I garnered several leads for possible business collaborations. Of course, it remains to be seen what will come of them, but the point is, if I hadn't gone, I wouldn't even have obtained those leads. Still, it would be nice if they could have meetings at a saner time...yawn....
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