Swann takes the helm at BNI Coastal Connections

TORQUAY’S chapter of a global business network has a new president, and she’s keen to see more local traders sign up.
One Agency Surf Coast senior sales consultant Olivia Swann has taken the helm at Business Network International (BNI) Coastal Connections, which launched in Torquay in 2016.
In each BNI chapter, only one person from each category – for example, video production, property management, graphic design, conveyancing, accounting and business coaching – is allowed to join.
Members are encouraged to give business referrals to other members of the group at the weekly meetings, and receive referrals in turn.
Ms Swann – who joined BNI Coastal Connections in October 2019 – is the chapter’s real estate salesperson, and said having a “seat” in the networking group was worth about $47,000, based on the number of referrals being passed on.
“It’s really cool, because it’s a bunch of different people from totally different business backgrounds that all come together once a week.
“It’s a good way to start the mornings – it starts at about 7.15am, and being able to connect with between 20 and 30 people that early in the morning is really good for me because it helps me be on point for the rest of the day in dealing with my own clientele.”
She said the group was always looking for more categories to join.
“We really want to get more people in the health sphere – physios, podiatrists, that sort of thing.
“We would love people in the real estate sphere as well – landscapers and builders, for example – because I can give a lot of referrals to them.”
BNI Coastal Connections has moved to an online platform during the coronavirus, but Ms Swann said the group had adjusted well to the lack of face-to-face meetings.
“It’s a good way to continue to connect with people. Obviously, in my industry, I talk to people all day every day, so I’m still connecting, but there’s other business owners in our group that aren’t talking to as many people as they would, so it’s a great way for them to still connect and have human interaction.”
For more information on BNI Coastal Connections, phone Ms Swann on 0499 053 114.