Dr. Iain Corness – June 2009

Bangkok, Pattaya and Phuket are hosts to many networking evenings, put on generally by the various Chambers of Commerce, or some local vested interest groups. The concept is well accepted in today’s tough economic environment, and many business-saving associations have come out of these networks.

During these times of adversity, networking with another person or group can turn difficulties into opportunities, and all done in a convivial situation and not a high pressure boardroom or auditor’s office.

New to Chiang Mai, but not new to the concept of networking is Networking One who openly state that networking is a marketing method by which business opportunities are created through networks of like-minded business people.

Many business people contend business networking is a more cost-effective method of generating new business than advertising or public relations efforts. This is because business networking is a low-cost activity that involves more personal commitment than company money. And personal commitment is worth far more than just an invoice for services to be rendered. Networking One suggest that you be able to articulate what you are looking for and how others may help you. Too often people ask in conversations, “How may I help you?” and no immediate response comes to mind.

Networking One encourages you to bring along colleagues and business associates to take full advantage of the networking opportunities. And do remember to bring along a full pocket of business cards.

The first Chiang Mai Networking One evening will be sponsored by AA Insurance Brokers, a company which has representatives covering all of Thailand, plus business network contacts overseas.

The networking evenings are on the first Thursday of each month from 6.30 p.m. until 9.30 p.m. and the entry fee of 300 baht per person includes wine, beer and food.