A Business Networking International or BNI chapter has been launched in Lloydminster.
The group has been building momentum over the last couple years, but the chapter was formalized with the Edmonton region on Aug.10.
“It’s really exciting. We have 26 members. All different businesses and relationships are being built. I always think of BNI as we have 26 referral partners,” says Sharon deKoning, president of the Lloydminster BNI Chapter.
deKoning’s business is It’s Time Promotions, which operates in Provost and Lloydminster, offering promotional and marketing supports across western Canada. She says the meeting format allows each member to share about their business and develop connections. There is a feature speaker at the online Thursday morning session, which assembles at 6:45 a.m., and runs for about an hour and a half. They also have an in-person meet up.
deKoning sees the networking connections as key.
“We’re not selling anything to anybody. We are literally getting to know each other and how we can help their business. That’s what it’s focused on. I’m going to get to know you. I’m going to get to know who your clientele is – because we are building those relationships. That’s what it is about – helping each other.”
Going forward, the group will look to expand its connections and identify ways of giving back to the community. The local BNI chapter can be reached via its website.
