Is networking really that important for the success of my business?

All businesses are ultimately about people — whether you sell widgets, services or the capability to construct the next quality building, a person will decide whether to make that purchase. Networking builds relationships, provides an avenue for exchanging ideas, makes you more noticeable and can serve as a launchpad for new opportunities.

Networking has long been part of the building and construction industry, and it has been a core service of The Builders’ Association since its inception in 1887. Whether it’s sharing a meal with area general contractors, subcontractors and industry partners or hitting the links for a round of golf, the chance to step away from the office and visit with colleagues from around the industry is a vital part of growing business, and The Builders’ Association is committed to facilitating those opportunities whenever we can.

Visit www.buildersassociation.com to see a full listing of construction industry networking events you can attend, including a Networking Happy Hour on Aug. 4 at our Springfield service center.

Meet the Expert

Miles Boyer is the Springfield Office Manager for The Builders' Association, which is a nonprofit commercial construction trade association serving hundreds of member companies that employ over 25,000 people in mid-America. Founded in 1887, The Builders’ Association has advanced the construction industry by delivering safety, craft and management training; employment, labor and government relations; and construction plans and technology tools.

Four service and training centers operate in Kansas City, Jefferson City and Springfield to serve both union and nonunion member companies and to aid collaboration by connecting passionate people and businesses, with a vision of improving lives through construction.

This is accomplished in several ways, including:

• 3,000+ safety trainees annually. 

• Community outreach. 

• 1,500+ apprentices in cosponsored programs. 

• Delivery of business education and professional development. 

• Negotiation of 27 collective bargaining agreements. 

• Coadministration and trustee-appointment authority for 28 fringe funds with over $3 billion in assets. 

• Government relations services at the local and state level, as well as federally through AGC Kansas City, a chapter of the Associated General Contractors of America and the association’s sister organization.