Blog Post

Forget Google! Why Networking Is Still My Choice For Getting Business

Clare Runham • Nov 01, 2018

It’s fair to say that my business wouldn’t be where it is today without the help of the breakfast networking I do on Thursdays at BNI. As a Virtual Assistant, most of my competitors are in the same situation today that I was when I started – working from the kitchen table, at home by myself. The difference is, unlike them, I now have my own dedicated office with three members of staff.

“My business wouldn’t be where it is today without the help of BNI”

Starting out, I tried various networking events, but I have found that BNI was the only serious option – we have to commit to working for each other and that really yields results; I’m proud that my Chapter (containing around 18 other small companies) has referred £800,000 of business to each other in the last year . In fact, 90% of my business comes through referrals from my colleagues at the Enterprise Malling Chapter.

The BNI family stretches far; when I attend exhibitions and shows it’s inevitable that I’ll meet other BNI members. This has led to me gaining more business through invites to substitute at other local Chapters, providing me access to an even bigger pool of like-minded professionals.

The fact that we all work so hard for each other is that, as a result, we have formed great friendships. Running a business is tough, so it’s great to have a support network around me.

“Running a business is tough, so it’s great to have a support network around me.”

Being part of such a large network is particularly useful as a large part of my team’s role is to help our clients find and manage suppliers. Fulfilling a Personal Assistant role, we’re often asked to find options for everything from insurance to IT support. At Miss MPS we can provide more value than simply doing a Google search – we know plenty of tried and trusted suppliers and will always get a better deal. In some cases, using my contacts within BNI has saved my clients thousands of pounds .

From almost nothing a couple of years ago, today our call handling service takes over 2,000 calls a month on behalf of our clients. I’m pleased to say many are for my fellow BNI members, where we’re booking appointments for plumbers and electricians, and taking messages for busy solicitors and mortgage brokers. It certainly makes me smile to think I was once doing this all on my own at the kitchen table – thanks to BNI I can see my business going from strength to strength.

For anyone thinking about joining their local BNI Chapter, stop thinking and do it! Happy to chat with my network about it if they're still unsure. Before you ask, nope, I'm not paid or rewarded in any way for endorsing BNI!

To find out more about Clare’s virtual assistant business, you can visit her website at www.missmps.co.uk . Visit her LinkedIn profile to connect.

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In today's fast-paced and demanding work environment, leaving the office early may seem like a distant dream for many. But fear not, because we hold the secret to achieving this elusive goal: the exceptional powers of a Virtual Assistant (VA)! With our efficiency, resourcefulness, and knack for managing tasks, we can be your ultimate ally in reclaiming your precious time and bidding farewell to the office earlier than ever before. So, sit back, relax, and let's explore how as a VA we can work our magic and help you achieve your much-deserved early departure. 1. Master of Organization: Our organisational skills are akin to those of a superhero. We possess the extraordinary ability to streamline your workload, ensuring maximum efficiency and minimal time wastage. By entrusting us with tasks such as scheduling, calendar management, and email prioritisation, you can rest assured that your day will be optimised to its fullest potential. With our meticulous planning, we will help you stay on top of your responsibilities and complete tasks well ahead of schedule, giving you the freedom to leave the office early with a sense of accomplishment. 2. Defending the Fortress: Picture this: You're about to call it a day when your phone starts ringing incessantly, demanding your attention for urgent matters. Fear not! Your trusty VA has got your back. You could have the ability to hand over all calls, screen emails, and handle enquiries, ensuring that only the most crucial and time-sensitive matters reach your ears. With our impeccable judgment and communication skills, we can efficiently handle routine queries, saving you from being tied down by distractions and allowing you to exit the office in triumph. 3. Supercharging Productivity: A VA is a productivity powerhouse. Armed with an array of digital tools and automation techniques, we can work wonders in enhancing your output. From research and data analysis to social media management and account handling, we can tackle tasks that would otherwise devour your precious time. With our assistance, you can harness the full potential of your working hours, completing assignments swiftly and efficiently. The result? Early departures become your new reality. In the age of Virtual Assistants, leaving the office early has transitioned from a mere aspiration to an achievable reality. By harnessing the organisational prowess, gatekeeping finesse, productivity superpowers, and task delegation mastery of a VA, you can bid farewell to your desk earlier than ever before. So, embrace the modern world of remote assistance, unleash the power of a VA, and enjoy the sweet taste of freedom as you leave the office early, knowing that your productivity has never been higher. It's time to make early departures your new office norm! Call us today on 01732 757 870 and leave the office early next Friday!
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