On 17th June 2023, a professional development workshop titled “The Art of Networking & Business Relationship Building” was organized by the Bangladeshi Marine Community Singapore (BMCS) at the Devan Nair Institute of Employment & Employability. The event, held from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM, witnessed enthusiastic participation from BMCS members, eager to enhance their networking and business relationship skills.
The workshop was designed to provide valuable insights into effective networking strategies, emphasizing the importance of building and nurturing professional networks. Participants were guided on how to engage in networking both at events and during daily opportunities. A key takeaway was the need to not only connect with people but also to follow up and maintain offline and online partnerships to build lasting business relationships.
The trainer, Lara, a management consultant and entrepreneur, brought a wealth of experience and knowledge to the session. Her extensive professional journey, which spans from the UK to Mongolia and Australia, helped enrich the workshop with real-world examples and practical advice. Lara’s background in economics from University College, London, coupled with her reputation as a “super connector,” made her an ideal trainer for this topic. Participants lauded her ability to inspire transformation and provide actionable strategies for improving their professional networks.
The workshop’s structure included:
- Identifying and building a professional network.
- Effective engagement at networking events.
- Following up to enhance relationships.
- Creating action plans for continuous professional development.
BMCS members commented that the workshop would be extremely useful for their professional growth, equipping them with the skills necessary for effective networking in both personal and business contexts.
The event was heavily subsidized by SkillsFuture SG, with a nominal fee structure that allowed a wide range of participants to benefit. The workshop culminated in the distribution of certificates, marking successful participation and completion.
Overall, the workshop was a resounding success, reflecting the commitment of BMCS to fostering the professional development of its members. The community looks forward to more such insightful workshops in the future.
