My working week: The BNI community is central to my success

Donna Parsons • 17 April 2026

I was proud this week to have Donna Creative featured in the Farnham Herald. Check out the story....

“I wanted the freedom to choose projects I believe in and to work more closely within my local community,” said Donna Parsons of Donna Creative when we met for a one-to-one recently and I asked her about starting her own business.


After 18 years of shaping communications across Hampshire’s NHS, Donna Parsons had made the bold decision to leave the corporate world. “Starting my own company was a big step,” said Donna.


Having been a member of BNI a decade before in her previous life, Donna rejoined in just her second month of trading.


“I have always believed community is central to my success. The BNI network’s mentorship, support and encouragement have certainly helped my business to grow quickly and confidently.”


In fact, Donna is already one of her chapter’s top performers.


What is her marketing philosophy?


“I believe marketing doesn’t need to feel overwhelming, though I know many business owners feel it is. With the right structure, it becomes manageable.”


Understanding that many local business owners juggle multiple roles, Donna has developed practical workshops for non-marketers, covering marketing fundamentals, brand foundations and LinkedIn profile optimisation.



“I want to focus on helping smaller organisations bring clarity and confidence to their marketing – helping them to communicate in a way that feels clear, honest and easy to understand. Because when communication is human and straightforward, trust follows naturally.”


To learn more, visit www.donna-creative.co.uk or connect with Donna on LinkedIn.


If BNI’s supportive ethos, which Donna has described, appeals to you, please do get in touch with me – alyson@bnihampshire.com. To give every member maximum value, we only allow one person from each trade or profession to join any given group, so let me introduce you to a chapter that has business to pass to you right now.


Source: Farnham Herald 16 April 2026

White laptop keyboard beside pink flowers on a light desk
by Donna Parsons 27 May 2026
Celebrate World Marketing Day with a reflection on 10 months of Donna Creative, sharing a passion for clear, confident marketing and supporting small businesses.
Hands holding blue cubes with email, phone, and @ contact icons
by Donna Parsons 21 May 2026
Struggling with social media results? Discover 5 common mistakes that could be costing you clients and how to fix them with clear, practical marketing tips.
Scattered magazines and postcards on a table, with colorful covers and photos visible.
by Donna Parsons 11 May 2026
Struggling to write your leaflet? Discover 5 reasons to hire a copywriter and create clear, engaging content that builds trust and attracts customers.
Collage of watercolor swatches, a letter, and a “THE SMOR” print on a wooden table, with a coffee cup.
by Donna Parsons 5 May 2026
Discover the best newsletter platforms and learn how to create emails people actually read. Explore practical tips and join the Creative Quick Wins training.
A person smiling while holding a printed leaflet featuring a QR code and text, seated at a wooden table in a cafe.
by Donna Parsons 20 April 2026
Small marketing tweaks can make a big impact. Discover how simple leaflet updates can improve clarity, build trust and attract more customers.
A brown and white horse wearing a heavy winter blanket stands in a snowy, sunny field. The name
by Donna Parsons 9 April 2026
Celebrate National Pet Day while discovering what animals can teach us about marketing, consistency and building trust in your business.
Green typewriter with colorful flowers on a pink background.
by Donna Parsons 18 February 2026
A personal reflection on being nominated for the Rising Maven award, sharing the early journey of Donna Creative and the confidence built in just six months.
Hands point to website mockups on paper and laptop, with a smartphone in view.
by Donna Parsons 9 February 2026
Professional website copy and design that feels clear, approachable and true to you. Showcase your personality and connect with clients from the first click.
Woman smiles, wearing black blazer over floral top, in a cafe.
by Donna Parsons 3 February 2026
A behind the scenes look at Donna Creative's first business talk during International Networking Week, sharing practical LinkedIn insight and what’s coming next.
Hands holding two puzzle pieces, with a laptop in the blurred background.
by Donna Parsons 19 January 2026
Expert social media support that delivers real growth. Build engagement, reach the right audience and see measurable results with Donna Creative.
Show More