Networking Success at European Business Awards Luncheon

Always looking for ways to improve the experience of our entrants, this year the European Business Awards decided to run a smaller networking event in advance of the official Gala Dinner. The British Consul-General, Mr Leigh Turner kindly agreed to host the event at the British Consulate-General in Istanbul on the morning of 6 June.

The Consulate itself was the perfect setting; the building was originally designed as the British Embassy of Constantinople in 1844 and has a wonderful air of elegance and history about it. The marble staircase up to the room where our event took place was an impressive example of Victorian architecture as was the stunning chandelier hanging above the first floor landing.

After welcome drinks, where entrants, judges, sponsors and members of the EBA team had a chance to catch up and introduce themselves, there were a few speeches, first from the Consul-General, Leigh Turner, who spoke about the benefits of doing business in Turkey notwithstanding the recent unrest. The British Consulate-General works in partnership with UKTI (UK Trade & Investment) Turkey to help facilitate business links between the two countries. Adrian Tripp from the EBA then spoke about the achievement of all the finalists and encouraged everyone in the room to grasp the opportunity offered by the awards to make new business relationships and share best practice.

Perhaps one of the most inspiring speeches was from RSM’s CEO, Jean Stephens, who talked about entrepreneurialism and innovation. She mentioned that as an individual, she is always asking herself if she is doing the best she can for her business and her staff. It was interesting to hear that she continually looks to learn from others and challenges herself as a leader.

The last speech was made by the Chairman of the Judges, Phil Forrest, who spoke about the calibre of the businesses entering the awards programme in 2012/13 and the challenges faced by the judges in deciding which companies should be chosen as the ten category winners.

After the speeches, lunch was served in the gardens of the Consulate-General. A wonderful Turkish inspired buffet lunch was on the menu, with tables set up under parasols on the lawn. Despite the threat of rain – and some impressive rumbles of thunder – the rain held off and the networking continued with animated conversation taking place.

Feedback was that the more intimate setting was a great way to get to know the other guests and that the conversation flowed very easily among the smaller group. Acquaintances were made which were further reinforced at the Gala Event later that evening.

Given the success of this pre-Gala event, the EBA will look at running another event of this kind next year for the 2013/14 Awards programme.