Happy birthday to us! The Boardroom Network Solent is a year old and it’s thriving, alongside the original Bournemouth group.
Operated and owned by Jacqui Frampton, we welcomed 75 members and guests to April’s meeting; the success of this group is partly down to the tremendous organisation which goes on ‘behind the scenes’ (dedicated event managers drive the mix of decision-makers and entrepreneurs who are in the room) and ‘on the day’ (thanks to the dapper man with the booming voice, MC Jay Rachet, who ensures perfect timing).
“It’s wonderful to see the development of this group and familiarity amongst members, who so warmly welcome visitors,” said Jacqui. “That’s how you make those all-important connections. We have 30 visitors here today but I’d like to say a special thank you to our founder members who have helped us to expand.”
TBN operates two table swaps, enabling attendees to maximise meeting new faces, with three short presentations.
Dave Plunkett spoke about a new initiative – The Boardroom Advantage – launching on May 2. It comprises a collection of offers and discounts specially selected to support members. You won’t find them on the High Street and we will have an opportunity to become more involved as the mix evolves.
Jacqui has negotiated deals ranging from card payment processing, flexible workspace, and foreign exchange services, through to marketing opportunities and personal perks (a business magazine, pension support and access to lead-generating behaviour profiling).
With less time to source information (there are only so many hours in the day), The Boardroom Advantage B2B goodies will save busy businesspeople time.
Aaron Whiffin spoke about the recent rebrand of Webbed Feet UK; in 16 years he (and his business) have grown up with the internet. A Certified Google Partner, he works with larger companies but remains committed to the same customer service which attracted his original owner-managed clients.
Hats off, literally, to Nicky Matthews (Media Box Marketing) and Liz Gordon (Brilliant Fish PR & Marketing) who have joined forces on The Marketing Menu, a free support and advice podcast service. Both admitted a few niggles about being ‘in competition’ on first meeting yet collaborate successfully. Liz advised: “Be open to any opportunity because you never know where it might lead you.” Nicky added that they were off straight after TBN to record their next podcast – on networking.
So, no birthday cake today, but a wonderful opportunity to have your cake and eat it too, via The Boardroom Advantage’s time and money-saving essentials.
There’s something for everyone.
It’s a rather nice party bag!
Words: Sue Hughes Copywriting & Editing suehughesltd.co.uk