2 minute read
A PROUD MILESTONE IN MY BNI BUSINESS JOURNEY
BY JOSHUA CLEMENTS
When I started Foreshore Garden Services, I built my client base by cold-calling property managers and estate agents. Carolyn from Luxe Property Managers answered one of those calls, and in mid-November, she invited me to visit BNI Focus—Peregian Springs. Initially sceptical, I attended the meeting and walked away with two new jobs. Realising BNI’s potential, I reached out to another BNI gardener, Jack from Mountain View Mowing, and visited his chapter, BNI Alliance— Buderim. Watching referrals and, “thank you for closed business,” acknowledgments being exchanged, I became convinced.
When I returned to BNI Focus, I felt like the hottest property in the room. Many members were keen to refer my services, and I left with five new jobs that day. Inspired, I submitted my application to join BNI. Our group was in the launch phase, so it was all hands on deck to establish ourselves as a new chapter. As more people attended and referrals grew, our chapter saw increased success, culminating in our official launch in May. In a short time, I’ve received twelve times my investment—more success than any other marketing strategy.
The financial gains are significant, but equally important is the network of people I can now rely on professionally and personally. Leanne Zecchinati, our Area Director, was always available to answer questions and helped me brainstorm solutions to early business challenges. Through Leanne, I met my first employee, her son Jay. After a serious motorbike accident, Jay was struggling to find work. The accident left him with injuries that took months to heal, leaving him uncertain about his future. But with some training and support, he joined our team and has grown into a confident young man with a renewed sense of purpose—a proud milestone in my business journey.
In July 2024, I restructured as Foreshore Property Services Pty Ltd, and we’re now a team of four (soon to be five) with three company vehicles. I’m spending less time on the tools, freeing me to travel and seek new opportunities. Now, as Launch Ambassador for BNI Online, I look forward to a bright and exciting future.
JOSHUA CLEMENTS | Owner www.foreshoregardens.com
