ORT Jet empowers connections in Sandton
Locals enjoyed a workshop, hosted by Nadia Bilchik, where they learnt that the ability to truly connect is everything.
ORT Jet hosted a dynamic workshop at Sasfin in Sandton on May 6, with internationally renowned speaker and communication expert Nadia Bilchik delivering an inspiring session titled: Great Conversations Start Here.
As president of Greater Impact Communication, Bilchik brought her signature warmth, humour, and authenticity to a room filled with small business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs.
From the outset, she set the tone with a simple admission. “Even after decades in front of a camera, I still get nervous before going live.”
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That honesty resonated deeply with attendees, paving the way for an engaging experience focused on connection, confidence, and collaboration.
ORT Jet, dedicated to empowering local entrepreneurs and small businesses, welcomed Bilchik’s fresh take on networking.
Rather than tired openers like: ‘So, what do you do?’, she advocated for observational openers and curiosity-driven questions such as: ‘What’s the most exciting thing you’re working on right now?’ These, she explained, foster genuine dialogue.
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A highlight of the session was her past, present, and future conversation model. Participants paired up to ask: ‘What is your biggest challenge right now?’, but without turning the spotlight on themselves.
Bilchik also introduced her FIRE framework: Feel good about yourself, interest in others, relax, and engage with intention.
She reminded attendees that confidence is built through preparation and presence. “If you don’t believe you belong in the room, you won’t own it.”
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Attendees were encouraged to follow up meaningfully, introduce connections, and nurture their networks consistently. “Build your network before you need it.”
Quoting her book: Own Your Network, Bilchik left participants with a powerful takeaway. “Great conversations don’t start with the perfect opener; they start with genuine interest, an open heart, and a willingness to listen.”
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