Season 1 - Episode 22 - BNI The Perfect 100 Podcast with Tammy Zurak

🎙 GUEST: Nikki Gates - Marketing Manager of Double Jay Construction
🌐 Website: https://doublejayinc.com

CliftonStrengths: Nikki Gates:  Harmony | Developer | Consistency | Arranger | Relator

In this episode, Tammy Zurak sits down with Nikki Gates, a BNI Area Director and commercial contractor, to discuss how BNI networking and strengths-based leadership fuel business growth strategies for entrepreneurs and small business owners. Nikki shares her inspiring journey from education to the construction industry and how she leverages CliftonStrengths and professional development to drive both personal and team success.

The conversation explores how networking for referrals can transform a business, the challenges of adapting to BNI’s systems, and the importance of effective communication in generating new opportunities. Nikki reveals proven small business coaching and business success strategies for building lasting professional relationships, fostering team collaboration, and growing through authentic connections.

Listeners will gain valuable insights on using strengths to improve team performance, developing a strong personal brand for business, and implementing growth strategies for business owners. Nikki also shares lessons on leadership, conflict resolution, and self-care—showing how entrepreneurs can thrive by aligning their values, networks, and strengths.

📚 Topics Covered

How to leverage CliftonStrengths in business to unlock your leadership potential.
Networking tips for small business owners that generate real referrals.
Ways to grow your business through referrals using effective BNI strategies.
How to build your personal brand with strengths and stand out as an entrepreneur.
Practical small business coaching and business success strategies for growth.
Insights into strengths-driven leadership and improving team performance.

👍 Like this episode? Don’t forget to hit the Like button, subscribe, and leave a comment with your biggest takeaway!
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🔗 Websites: https://bnitheperfect100.com, www.tammyzurak.com
📩 Coaching Inquiries: tammy@tammyzurak.com
💡 Free Resources: www.tammyzurak.com
🎯 Book a Zoom to discuss Strengths and Coaching: Book a Strategy Chat
📸 Instagram: @zbusinesscoach
🔗 LinkedIn: Tammy Zurak on LinkedIn
🎙 Podcast Page: Listen Anywhere: https://bniperfect100.transistor.fm/subscribe 
Subscribe by RSS feed: https://bniperfect100.transistor.fm/subscribe👍 Like this episode? Don’t forget to hit the Like button, subscribe, and leave a comment with your biggest takeaway!
🔔 Subscribe so you never miss an episode of The Perfect 100.

Chapters

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Nikki Gates and Her Roles
03:55 Balancing Business and Leadership
07:13 Leadership Strengths and Relationship Building
10:17 Shifting Chapter Culture for Growth
13:05 The Importance of Regional Connections
15:06 Nikki's Journey to BNI
16:59 Improving Business Exposure
17:59 Referrals in Commercial Construction
19:44 Overcoming Initial Challenges in BNI
23:06 Communicating Opportunities Effectively
26:46 Practices of Strong Chapters
27:58 Navigating Growth Challenges
28:59 Success Stories and Referrals
31:43 The Importance of Consistency in Networking
32:59 Understanding Performance Metrics
35:07 The Role of Strengths in Leadership
39:05 Learning and Development in Business
41:55 Building Trust Through Relationships
51:47 The Power of Diverse Strengths in Teams
53:16 Identifying and Leveraging Underutilized Strengths
55:23 Coaching and Celebrating Progress
59:29 Common Challenges for Business Owners
01:01:09 Connecting with Mentors and Resources
01:05:29 Maintaining Balance: Routines and Habits
01:09:23 Lessons Learned: The Value of Networking
01:10:53 Future Aspirations: Helping Others Succeed