Growth, Connections and the Thrill of Sharing Knowledge
When Kuy (General Manager, Allure Pest Solutions), first suggested I join a BNI chapter, I had no idea what BNI was! All I knew was it was a group of business owners and professionals that got together to discuss business. What I didn’t anticipate was how profoundly it would impact me personally and professionally. BNI has proven to be so much more than a networking group, it’s been a place to learn, connect and thrive in ways that I hadn’t imagined.
From the very beginning, I was introduced to a world of diverse professionals – mortgage brokers, real estate agents, financial advisors and business owners from all walks of life. Observing how their businesses operate, learning from their experiences and building genuine relationships has been incredibly rewarding. It’s been about more than exchanging business cards; it’s been about understanding each other’s challenges, our successes and fostering a network built on trust and collaboration.
One of the highlights of my BNI experience has been the opportunity to stand in front of a room full of business professionals and deliver presentations termites, pest control, how to safeguard their homes and businesses and the chemicals we use and their modes of action. It’s one thing to share this knowledge, but it’s a whole different experience when you receive feedback like, “That was the best presentation I have seen in BNI!” That moment was not just a professional win, it was a personal thrill, reinforcing the confidence and skill I have developed through this journey.
Over the past year, my involvement with BNI Gateway has grown alongside my own personal and professional development. I started as a member, then was invited to become a Visitor Host – a role that allowed me to connect new people to the chapter and help them feel welcome. A few moths ago, I stepped into the Education Coordinator role, giving me the chance to create presentations that help to educate and inspire our members. And now, I’ve been honoured to be named Vice President of our chapter! This role brings new responsibilities and the chance to contribute even more to this incredible community.
Throughout all of this, I’ve come to the realisation that BNI isn’t just about the stats or referrals. Yes, the referrals and stats are important, but the true value lies in the relationships you build and the support system you create. The personal growth, the confidence to speak in front of peers, the ability to learn from other industries and the genuine friendships that are formed along the way – these are the things that make BNI truly special.
Being part of such an amazing group of professionals has shown me that networking is not just about business opportunities, it’s about people. Collaborating with them to create an environment where everyone can succeed. My journey with BNI has been transformative and I’m excited to continue to grow with these amazing people.