‘Biz and Booze’ a new way of interacting and making business
In Nairobi, drinking is a well-recognised part of doing business and facilitating social exchange.
As the business world becomes more competitive, drinking is considered to be a beneficial behaviour for business success. But is booze really a good short-cut to forming (and maintaining) relations, or is it finally time to re-think that next round?
Enter Biz and Booze, a creative idea by Ricky Ochako who recently hosted their third networking event at Tessara Gardens in Mirema Drive, Nairobi.
He says that talking business whilst getting drunk may seem incongruous and counter-intuitive; nevertheless, drinking culture is widespread in Kenya yet diverse between regions.
“Generally speaking, drinking has been linked with business more closely in the city, compared to other regions in the country. In the city, for example, there is an old saying that a banquet without alcohol is no banquet at all. Drinking is considered to be a good way to show respect and hospitality for guests, and is often used as an extension of the boardroom,” he says.
Biz and Booze is an after-work networking event dedicated to professionals, who are interested in exploring new business opportunities, gaining compelling business advantage, and cultivating productive partnerships.
Through social interactions, shared learning, displays and industry presentations, Biz and Booze connects dedicated professionals to relevant business solutions and innovations, capable of stimulating business growth and personal development.
At each Biz and Booze event, participants experience interactive presentations on trending business issues by key industry experts, as well as engage in one-on-one sessions with presenters.
Although alcohol is beneficial for business in some ways, alcohol consumption can be divisive. Indeed, not all people regard the opportunity to drink as an advantage, given that alcohol may be detrimental to both drinkers, organisations, and even a country.
Similarly, some business people hold that a person’s drinking attitude and style can, to a certain extent, reveal their true personality and quality.
People who drink without hesitation can usually create the impression that they are straightforward and trustworthy. Thus, drinking at such events is often considered an effective way to know get to know other people and build trust, which can lay an important foundation for success in business deals.
After all, a good beginning is half the battle.