Jouw business in één hap vooruit.
Networking goes beyond borders.
In this special International Networking Week edition, BNI Antwerp and BNI Finland join forces. Nea Nikulainen shares how networking works in Finland and what BNI members can learn from an international mindset.
- GEPUBLICEERD
- 4 februari 2026
- DUUR
- 00:13:30
Over deze aflevering
How can a local business network open doors around the world? In this International Networking Week edition, BNI Antwerp and BNI Finland join forces. Nea Nikulainen explains why structured networking is particularly valuable in Finland and how BNI creates a safe environment in which entrepreneurs can start conversations, ask for business and build trust. She also shares practical ways to connect internationally through BNI Connect, online chapter visits, Global Power Teams, international events and LinkedIn.
Dit neem je mee
- A structured and welcoming environment makes it easier to start conversations, ask for business and develop stronger relationships.
- Use BNI Connect to find members from your own industry, potential suppliers and international collaboration partners.
- Mention your BNI membership on LinkedIn. This makes it easier for members in other countries to recognise and contact you.
Hoe helpt Nea Nikulainen ondernemers?
Nea is the Operations Coordinator at BNI Finland. She supports members and regional teams with the practical and administrative side of the organisation, including membership applications, invoicing and day-to-day coordination. Her work helps Finnish entrepreneurs participate in a structured referral network, connect with other professionals and discover new business opportunities.
Which Finnish networking habit can help BNI members build stronger relationships?
According to Nea, networking and directly asking for business do not always come naturally to Finnish professionals. A structured BNI meeting helps overcome that barrier by giving people a clear reason to start conversations and explain what kind of business or support they are looking for.
The chapter creates a safe environment in which members can get to know one another consistently. As relationships grow, it becomes easier to ask questions, share opportunities and recommend each other with confidence.
That same structure can also be used internationally. Members can visit chapters while travelling, attend online meetings and use BNI Connect to search for people by country, profession or expertise. Nea also recommends connecting through LinkedIn and clearly mentioning that you are a BNI member.
“We have an environment where you can be yourself, connect with people and also ask for business.”
Wie kan Nea Nikulainen helpen?
Entrepreneurs can support Nea and BNI Finland by listening to and sharing the BNI Finland podcast, visiting a Finnish chapter meeting and connecting with Finnish BNI members. International members who are interested in doing business in Finland can use BNI Connect or LinkedIn to find relevant professionals, suppliers and collaboration partners.
Van opname tot publicatie.
Deze aflevering werd opgenomen in de podcaststudio van Promotime in Antwerpen .
