At Soar Valley Press, we are passionate about delivering top-notch design, print, signage, and branded merchandise solutions to our clients. But beyond our craft and services, there’s
something equally vital that fuels our growth: networking. Over the years, building strong, meaningful connections through networking has been instrumental in expanding our reach, enhancing our reputation, and driving our business forward.
We’re particularly proud to be part of two incredible Leicester-based networking groups – BNI Olympus and BNI Foxes -– which have been key players in our growth journey. Today, we want to share how these connections have empowered us, and why we believe in the power of networking for businesses of all sizes.
The Power of Networking: More Than Just Business Cards
Networking is more than just handing out business cards and hoping for the best. It’s about forming relationships, sharing knowledge, and supporting each other’s success. For us, being active members of BNI (Business Network International) groups has been about forging connections that go deeper than mere transactions.
BNI is a global network, renowned for its structured approach to business networking. With over 290,000 members worldwide, BNI’s primary goal is to help businesses grow through a
system of giving and receiving business referrals. The core philosophy of BNI is “Givers Gain®” - the idea that by helping others, you will also benefit in return. This principle has resonated deeply with our team at Soar Valley Press.
BNI Olympus and BNI Foxes: Strength in Numbers
We’re incredibly fortunate to have two of our team members actively involved in BNI Olympus and BNI Foxes, two of the most dynamic networking groups in Leicester.
BNI Olympus is one of the largest and most successful chapters in the region. The group is a vibrant mix of professionals from various industries, all dedicated to supporting each other’s growth. Our involvement with Olympus has opened doors to collaborations, new business opportunities, and invaluable advice from fellow members.
BNI Foxes is another powerhouse networking group in Leicester. Known for its energetic and friendly atmosphere, Foxes offers a platform for local businesses to connect and thrive. Our team member in Foxes has consistently benefited from the group’s support, which has translated into tangible growth for Soar Valley Press.
The Benefits of Being a BNI Member
So, what makes BNI membership so beneficial? Here are some key reasons why we believe in the power of BNI:
Quality Referrals: BNI members actively seek opportunities to refer business to one another. This referral system is based on trust and credibility, ensuring that the leads generated are high quality and more likely to convert into loyal customers. Businesses that participated in BNI referrals generated £20.6 billion in revenue globally in 2021.
Continuous Learning: BNI is not just about business growth, it’s also about personal and professional development. The group regularly hosts workshops, seminars, and presentations that help members sharpen their skills and stay updated on industry trends.
Strong Community: Being part of BNI means being part of a community that supports each other. This sense of belonging is crucial, especially for small businesses that might otherwise feel isolated. The friendships and partnerships formed within BNI go beyond business, often leading to long-lasting professional relationships.
Accountability: The structured nature of BNI meetings ensures that members are
held accountable for their commitments. This structure helps businesses stay focused on their goals and consistently strive for excellence.
How Networking Has Boosted Our Growth
For Soar Valley Press, networking through BNI Olympus and BNI Foxes has been a game-changer. It has allowed us to:
Expand Our Client Base: Many of our clients have come through referrals from BNI members who trust in the quality of our work. These clients often return for repeat business, and some even become ambassadors for our brand, spreading the word about our services.
Enhance Our Reputation: Being associated with a reputable networking organisation like BNI adds credibility to our business. It signals to potential clients that we are committed to maintaining high standards and continuously improving.
Gain New Perspectives: Interacting with professionals from diverse industries has
given us fresh insights and ideas that have helped us innovate and stay competitive in a rapidly changing market.
Foster a Culture of Giving: The “Givers Gain®” philosophy has instilled in us a deep commitment to helping others. This culture of generosity not only enriches our professional lives but also brings us closer as a team.
Join Us on the Journey
As we continue to grow and thrive, we are excited about the future possibilities that networking through BNI will bring. We encourage other businesses, especially those in the Leicester area, to explore the benefits of joining a BNI group. Whether you’re looking to expand your network, find new business opportunities, or simply connect with like-minded professionals, BNI Olympus and BNI Foxes are fantastic places to start.
In conclusion, networking has been a cornerstone of our success at Soar Valley Press. It’s
about more than just making connections - it’s about building relationships, sharing in each
other’s successes, and growing together, and we’re proud to be part of a community that truly embodies these values.
If you’re interested in learning more about the networking groups we’re a part of, you can
visit BNI Olympus and BNI Foxes to see how they can help your business soar, just like they’ve helped ours.
By embracing the power of networking, we’ve discovered that when businesses come together, amazing things can happen. Here’s to many more years of growth, collaboration,
and community!
Sources:
1. BNI Global Statistics
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