The importance of professional associations for networking and business visibility

When we think of networking, we inevitably think of trade shows, conventional meetings and social networks! While LinkedIn pages, GoogleMyBusiness and meetings at trade shows are great ways to boost your business, there are alternative solutions, such as professional associations, that can help you spread the word about your company!

Trade associations are a highly appreciated tool for entrepreneurs wishing to develop their network, meet new people and promote exchanges. They’re also a great place to showcase your digital business card, and give other members the opportunity to get in touch with you should any needs or opportunities arise.

Numerous professional associations, such as BNI (Business Network International), Réseau Entreprendre and Club Rotary, enable professionals to energize their network effectively.

BNI (Business Network International): an innovative concept for boosting your professional network

The brainchild of Ivan Misner, Business Network International (BNI) was born in 1985. This global concept is based on the idea of a large network of professional recommendations.

BNI groups are made up of professionals from a wide range of sectors, whose aim is simple: to promote a diversity of opportunities through weekly meetings that enable members to exchange ideas and develop their network.

One representative per activity

BNI meetings are organized around a variety of themes, and each professional is the sole representative of his or her business sector. Each member briefly introduces himself or herself in turn to share information about his or her business, needs, values and so on.

A mutual referral system

BNI is based on a mutual referral system, meaning that members must provide quality references to other participating members, in order to offer a relevant exchange of knowledge and skills. The aim is to recommend the services and products of other members, leading to new opportunities and network development.

Professional network expansion

The meetings offered by BNI are designed to enable professionals to expand their network and benefit from new business references. They also enable the development of networking skills and access to new opportunities.

Réseau Entreprendre: an association dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs

Frenchman André Mulliez is behind Réseau Entreprendre, a non-profit association founded in 1986.

The Réseau Entreprendre concept is simple: to support and accompany entrepreneurs in the success of their projects. Réseau Entreprendre aims to encourage entrepreneurs to share their experience and develop their skills.

Personalized support

This entrepreneurial support organization provides entrepreneurs with personalized support, but not only. It is also an association designed to guide professionals towards a network of experts and opportunities, thus promoting business growth and success.

Promoting entrepreneurial collaboration

Réseau Entreprendre also promotes the sharing of experience and business collaboration between members. The aim is to create synergy between entrepreneurs, and help them benefit from assistance to strengthen their network.

The Rotary Club: an association of solidarity for entrepreneurs

Founded in the United States, Rotary’s first objective was to promote solidarity among business leaders. Over the years, a double objective has been added to Rotary’s policy: to promote humanitarian and social action. This association, made up of professional members working together on common projects, promotes the values of benevolence, solidarity and sharing.

Why get involved in professional associations?

BNI, Réseau Entreprendre and Rotary are associations that offer many advantages to professionals.

Boost your professional network

These associations offer entrepreneurs and professionals the opportunity to make themselves known and boost their network. These platforms are highly effective for sharing and exchanging ideas, and enable professionals to raise the profile of their business.

At these weekly meetings, remember to present your VKARD digital business card to participating members!

Seize new opportunities

As well as being an excellent way of expanding your professional network, trade associations also enable you to seize new opportunities and meet potential prospects.

Share knowledge

Professional associations are also highly appreciated by entrepreneurs, as they facilitate the sharing of knowledge with professionals from different business sectors. A source of enriching opportunities, professional associations are a great way to meet new people, exchange ideas on a variety of topics and create lasting, authentic relationships with like-minded professionals.

Develop your self-confidence

Taking part in meetings organized by professional associations can be an excellent way of boosting your self-confidence and enhancing your skills.

Professional associations such as BNI, Rotary or Réseau Entreprendre are real pillars for building a solid professional network and boosting your business. They are an excellent way for professionals to meet new personalities and exchange ideas on a variety of topics. Like trade shows, associations are a friendly alternative, ideal for forging links and taking advantage of new business opportunities.