At a recent Business Networking South Leicestershire meeting, our chairman, Robert McVey, delivered a personal and engaging 10-minute presentation about the development of his home and the preparations he has made for the years ahead.
Robert, of Robert McVey Staircases and Joinery, explained how the project had involved far more than simply redecorating. His aim was to improve, modernise and future-proof the property, creating a comfortable home that would continue to meet his needs in later life.
The presentation also provided a brilliant demonstration of the value of BNSL membership, as Robert revealed just how many current and former members of the group had contributed to the project.
Future-Proofing the Family Home
Robert talked about the different decisions involved in preparing a home for the future. This included improving its comfort, accessibility, efficiency and ease of maintenance.
Rather than waiting until changes became essential, Robert took a forward-thinking approach. By planning ahead, he has been able to create a home that works well now while also being better suited to his future needs.
His experience demonstrated that a substantial home improvement project often involves many different trades and professional services. Having trusted people to call upon can make the entire process much easier.
A Project Supported by BNSL Members
One of the most striking parts of Robert’s presentation was the number of BNSL connections involved in the work.
Robert explained that he had called upon current and former members for a wide variety of services, including:
- Roy Lee of Roy Lee Plumbing & Heating Ltd, who completed plumbing and bathroom work.
- Ian Frost, who helped with the flooring and carpets.
- Simon Goodman of Beyond Beige, who helped with the Wi-Fi and technology set-up.
- Rachel of Creature Comforts Upholstery, who created new curtains and helped with soft furnishings.
- Clare McCabe of Purple Star Design, who provided graphic design support.
- Paul Hines of Progress Windows, who fitted new windows.
- Martin Ingram of Helios Web Design, who created Robert’s business website.
- Tom Simpson of Duncan & Toplis, who has helped Robert structure his business and tax affairs efficiently.
- Eddie Royce of True Potential Wealth Management, who provides financial planning and advice.
- Josh Makepeace of Everywhen Insurance, who helped arrange suitable business insurance.
- Rob Abell of Will Planning Solutions, who helped Robert and his partner, Stella, with their wills and future planning.
- Michaela Forty of Family Care Advice, who helped Robert’s mother organise appropriate care support.
- Manjit Khangura of ELHR, who helped a family member resolve a difficult employment dispute and achieve a favourable settlement.
Other members have also helped Robert, his business and his wider family over the years, either through their own services or by making trusted introductions.
You can explore the full range of businesses represented within the group in the BNSL Directory of Members.
More Than Referrals
Robert’s presentation perfectly illustrated that business networking is not simply about exchanging leads.
Over time, members get to know one another, understand the quality of each other’s work and build genuine trust. When a service is needed, there is often already someone within the group who can help—or who knows the right person to contact.
For Robert, these relationships have supported:
- His home improvement project
- His business and website
- His accounting and tax planning
- His financial and legal arrangements
- His insurance requirements
- The care and wellbeing of family members
That wealth of trusted expertise and connections is one of the greatest benefits of belonging to a well-established local business network.
A Richer Life Through BNSL Membership
Robert concluded by explaining that his life has been made richer through his membership of BNSL.
That value is not measured purely in business won. It also comes from friendships, shared knowledge, trusted recommendations and knowing that support is available when it is needed.
His presentation was an excellent reminder of what the group is really about: local business owners building lasting relationships and helping one another both professionally and personally.
Join Us at BNSL
Would you like to build a network of trusted local professionals who can support you, your business and your clients?
BNSL offers a friendly, relaxed and enjoyable approach to networking, with no pressure to provide leads and only one member representing each profession.
Come along as a guest, meet the members and see what the group could add to your business and your life.
Contact the BNSL Committee to arrange your visit:
https://businessnetworkingleicestershire.co.uk/contact-us/
Local. Supportive. Affordable. Real.
— The BNSL Committee
