NELSON Mandela Bay’s newest business networking fraternity, Business Network International’s (BNI) Trade Winds chapter, is inviting professionals to join the organisation to assist in growing their network and client base.
The chapter connects players from different sectors on an informal basis and allows them to network and secure more work.
Trade Winds, the fifth branch of the organisation to open in the city, had its official launch yesterday, according to its newly elected president, Riaan Hanekom.
"BNI is an international organisation with members all over the world. There are 1800 members in South Africa who belong to 94 chapters across the country. We are the fifth chapter to open in the city. The last one was started in 2006 so this is way overdue for Port Elizabeth,” he said.
Hanekom said BNI was unique in that it only allowed one person from a business sector to take part in a chapter. This was to guard against clash of business interests.
"If we already have a law firm as a member we will not allow another law firm to join. So we only have one member from an industry in the chapter. This way when someone knows of someone who needs legal assistance we all will refer that legal firm.
"BNI is a great way for businesses to experience growth by maximising their marketing efforts through word-of-mouth.
"New applicants are screened thoroughly and we will not recommend a business that is not credible. There is a great benefit for businesses who are members,” Hanekom said.
For more information contact Hanekom on 084-513-0939.
