Networking tops reasons to join Bureau

A survey of the membership of the Bristol China Bureau will help shape future projects and events with most people saying they are happy with the direction the bureau is going in.

Some 70% of members said that business networking opportunities were of their main reasons for joining the organisation with 64% citing Chinese cultural awareness was their trigger for joining.

The survey clearly showed that what people value the most about being members of the Bureau is the introductions they get to other businesses and people with an enthusiasm for China with 90% saying that was the best benefit. Close behind were attending the events, which was highly valued by 85% of the respondents.

China Bureau Chief Executive Officer Dianne Francombe said: “The board have already looked at the survey results and the feedback we have had will help us to shape the events over the next year. Many people said they wanted to support projects and we will be looking at how we can get more involvement for everyone.

“With networking so highly valued we will be looking to provide opportunities to bring together people with a passion and interest in doing business in China in more interesting, entertaining and exciting ways in the future.

“We’d also like to hear from anyone with a new idea for an event or who would like to present their services and experience to others in an interesting way. There were lots of positive comments accompanying the survey and that was encouraging to hear.

“We know that there are so many pulls on people’s time these days, so the China Bureau needs to be fun and something that people look forward to participating in.”

Richard Lowe, Director of Business Initiatives, who conducted the survey, said: “Strategically, China is a growing focus for international trade and whilst it is encouraging to hear that our networking events are helping members to develop their know-how and connectivity, we’re now looking to develop a variety of events to deepen member relations and collaboration. This includes promoting member’s China related events as an additional membership benefit.”