Network members generate €7m

A business network in Cork has become the first in the country to generate over €7m worth of business for its members through word of mouth and referrals.

The Cork City chapter of Business Networking International generated the business over four years.

Ciara Feely, chapter membership co-ordinator, said they are thrilled to be the first BNI chapter in the country to reach such a milestone.

“The calibre of our members is very strong and each of us are serious about promoting each other to attract new business referrals, which is the core principal of BNI,” she said.

“With BNI you reap what you sow, and this €7m landmark is proof that it is possible to grow your business despite this new economy.”

Jack Cahill, the chapter director and a city-based chartered engineer, said it is a phenomenal achievement to generate such an amount of business — even in good times.

“Such a high volume of business among our members is proof that growth is possible in this new economy with the support of a strong networking group such as BNI which is changing the way the world does business,” he said.

Sandra Hart, the executive director of BNI Ireland South and West, said the Cork chapter’s success is proof that by working together, businesses can progress and grow despite the economic climate.

The Cork chapter members meet at Nemo Rangers Sports Complex every Friday at 7am.

They come from a diverse range of business backgrounds and trades, and include a chiropractor, solicitor, plumber and green energy company.

The chapter supports 218 jobs locally, excluding the many related sub-contractors, consultants and seasonal workers.

BNI was set up 27 years ago. Each chapter allows one person from each trade or profession to join it.

At its weekly meetings, members learn about each others’ businesses, and benefit from BNI’s unique referral system.

BNI holds regular training in effective networking and public speaking and welcomes new members.

* www.bni.ie