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I joined The Business Network Manchester over a year ago and took the time to get to know the network Members there. After about 5 months we won our first contract, and since then we've generated a constant flow of referrals and met many new decision makers and business contacts. It's not just been the attendees that we've worked with, they have suggested our services to their contacts, so its networking in the real sense of the word. Helen is very active in ensuring that there are always new attendees and the group runs at a very healthy level each month. Its also great fun and thoroughly enjoyable.

I have been a member of the Business Network for four or five years, first in Manchester and then in Chester when that region was established. Having spent over 30 years in corporate life, the latter 20 at Board level, I was very uncomfortable with the whole concept of formal networking events. Thank heaven I joined Business Network!!! My 30 year corporate experience involved working for three multinational retailers, so I believe I am qualified to make international comparisons when commenting on the strengths of The Business Network. For brevity I'm going to bullet point the exceptional strengths of this world class brand. 1. Clarity of purpose. Some may call it a vision or a mission.... Doesn't matter. BN knows what it wants to achieve, is utterly consistent in its execution and therefore achieves its targets. 2. A single eye over the business. This is hugely important in a franchise business. Helen Bennett, the founder of BN in its current form, is a colossally impressive networker, and an infectiously inspiring facilitator and leader. Helen's integrity, astonishing work ethic/output and unbounded enthusiasm permeate the entire organisation and set the standard for every region. 3. Efficiency, reliability and member friendly admin systems. The business is designed to give its members the best possible service... And it unfailingly does. 4. Results orientated. The success of any brand is ultimately measured by the loyalty of its customers. I haven't done the research but I bet Helen has, and I'll wager that BN beats most comparable business networking agencies worldwide on member retention. Why? Because we, the members, love the process, love the people and develop lasting, constructive business connections as a result of regularly attending our local Business Network monthly lunches. "Simple" as the Meerkat says!