BDO is keen to encourage a sense of connection, not only between employees and clients, but also, of course, between clients themselves. So, what could be more suitable than a professionally organised networking activity where people can meet and exchange business ideas?
“Not just any event though,” says Max. “Our organisation wants to go the extra mile, away from the well-trodden paths of networking. We want to move away from transactional methods and from the traditional distribution of business cards. Driven by our ambition to develop a New Way of Networking, we went in search of creative formulas to enable internal and external stakeholders to connect with each other – and to do so more organically, in an informal setting and with attention to personal interests."
In recent months, sport and culture have proven to be the ideal channels for bringing employees and clients closer together. “In June this year, we invited clients and colleagues to ‘A Night at the Museum’ at the recently renovated Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp,” recalls Max. “And in July, BDO Belgium helped organise the brand-new Buenas Open padel tournament in Kontich. The two events were huge successes, with participants getting to know each other in an informal setting. This relaxed approach was greatly appreciated.”
What happens if we reserve the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp (KMSKA) one evening for our own employees, along with clients and their partners, to enjoy a first-class collection of visual art together? It creates a unique evening with a perfect mix of Culture (with a capital C) and new connections. “We offered everyone the opportunity to enjoy the works of art at their own pace. Afterwards, we provided a walking dinner reception with high-quality catering. And what happened? Exciting new contacts were established in this ‘organised chaos’. With a snack and a drink in hand, the conversations flowed in a pleasant atmosphere. That evening in June proved so successful that we organised a new museum visit this month.”
Recently, the sports fanatics at BDO Belgium – both employees and clients – also got a piece of the action. “BDO Belgium is a partner of the 4-day Buenas Open padel tournament,” Max explains. “This new sporting event was launched by three young Antwerp-based entrepreneurs. They are convinced that this tournament can be an ideal platform to get business people moving, literally – with the focus on a healthy lifestyle – and connecting with each other. We firmly believe in this ambition at BDO, too.”
The Buenas Open took place from 6 to 9 July. Max recounts with enthusiasm: “On one of the four tournament days – during the B2B event, to be exact – we played some fun matches ourselves, in which the teams were made up either entirely of clients or of a mix of colleagues and clients. In the evening, as a reward for our sporting efforts, we enjoyed a walking dinner and an afterparty together. This created a relaxed atmosphere for connection and inspiring moments. We received positive feedback on this tournament from many clients, with lots of praise for the organisers as well. Proof that padel connects!”
Max is convinced that BDO Belgium will continue to invest in the creative New Way of Networking events, allowing employees and clients to get to know each other in refreshing new ways. “With an original approach, we want to continue to stimulate interaction and make fabulous experiences possible. Events such as the Royal Museum of Fine Arts in Antwerp and the Buenas Open are also ideal for connecting with each other better as colleagues. When we are well aware of what each of us is doing, we will succeed in providing clients with even better advice on the challenges they want to tackle.”
