The opening session of this year’s KBDi Conference, proudly sponsored by Lincoln Sentry, set the tone for two days of learning, sharing, and connection. State Sales Manager Ryan Garrard warmly welcomed delegates on behalf of the Lincoln Sentry team, reminding attendees of the wide range of kitchen, bathroom, laundry, and wardrobe solutions the company continues to offer the industry. His introduction paved the way for our first keynote speaker, Karina Chapman, who took us on a compelling journey into the art of ‘Conscious Connection’.
Karina started with a simple exercise: the handshake. Delegates quickly realised how much can be communicated through a single gesture – confidence, trust, enthusiasm – and how non-verbal cues influence the first moments of any meeting.
Lessons from Experience
In one of the most memorable moments of her presentation, Karina shared her story of a failed business partnership. She described how misaligned values and unreliable commitments had left her carrying the burden of a struggling salon. While the experience was tough, it reinforced the importance of choosing the right people to partner with in business – those who share your vision, integrity, and long-term goals.
For designers and cabinetmakers, the message was crystal clear: the people you work with – from suppliers and trades to collaborators and clients – can make or break your business.
The Alignment Matrix
To help delegates assess their networking habits, Karina introduced her Alignment Matrix. She outlined four zones of networking: transactional exchanges, friendly fog (where connections are pleasant but unproductive), time-wasting encounters, and – most importantly – aligned connections.
True business growth, she explained, stems from the latter: intentional connections that provide mutual value, foster collaboration, and support a shared vision.
Keys to Deeper Connection
Karina wrapped up her session with five keys to forming stronger, more intentional connections.
- Non-verbal connection – pay attention to body language.
- Confident conversations – practise positive self-talk and clarity.
- Clarity of purpose – know what you want to achieve.
- Lead with intention – set the tone for each interaction.
- Vision for the future – connect with people who share it.
Karina's call to action was straightforward but impactful: connect with purpose, follow up with intention, and seize opportunities like the KBDi Conference to build meaningful connections.
The KBDi team extends our thanks to Lincoln Sentry for sponsoring this inspiring session and for their continued support of the kitchen and bathroom industry.
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