May/June 2005
Art of Networking
United StatesBNI Enters 50th State!
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| Core Group Members: Chris Beck, Noni Bordwell, Deborah Cassidy, Joyce Bishop, Megan Gruhl, Karen Abney, Marlo Nikkila, Robin Schuckmann, and Ann Sibal. Missing from photo: Kelly Fisher, Regional Director. |
Robin Schuckmann, Executive Director from Portland, Oregon, provided the Leadership Training and facilitated the Kick-Off meeting. "Based on my brief interactions with the members, they work well together and are motivated to succeed. With little competition in the Anchorage area, they have a lot of room to grow." Congratulations to the BNI Connectors Chapter!
Submitted by Robin Schuckmann, Executive Director, BNI Oregon & SW Washington
United StatesReciprocity Ring Success
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| David Kantelis and Mark Lee give the Reciprocity Ring presentation |
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| Reciprocity Ring in Action |
The Reciprocity Ring presentation focuses on reminding our BNI members to be more specific when they make referrals or introductions. During each Reciprocity Ring presentation business was generated and time was saved.
- The Silver City chapter members stated they would generate $1,407,000 and save over 1400 hours.
- The Hockomock chapter thought they could generate over $400,000 and save themselves 900 hours.
- Metro South's members thought they could generate as much as $325,000 and save themselves as many as 775 hours.
Submitted by David Kantelis, Assistant Director, Southeastern Massachusetts-Rhode Island
United StatesHouston Joint Meeting
On Tuesday, March 15, 2005 the BNI Houston West Region held an exciting joint kick-off for our 28th and 29th chapters.The celebration was held in Conroe, Texas where President Gwen Plauche of the Woodlands BNI Preferred Connection Chapter and President Patrick Beale of the Conroe BNI Advantage Chapter were initiated. The ceremony was conducted by Executive Director Kathy Mathy, Assistant Director Mark Taylor, and Ambassadors Wes Padgett and Ed Dolphin.
Attended by numerous other BNI Leadership Teams and members, the event brought the Houston West Region membership to nearly 700!
Submitted by Kathleen A. Mathy, CPA, Executive Director, Houston West Region
United StatesRapid City Chapter Proves BNI Works
River City Chapter in Jacksonville, Florida is proof that BNI works. Our chapter has grown rapidly this past year with a record number of members, referrals and revenue. In less than a year, our membership doubled, referrals increased by 30% and revenue exchanges pushed $200,000.
We attribute our success to a renewed commitment to strictly follow BNI meeting agendas and rules. We quickly learned that the closer we stick to the program, the more success is generated. The growth rate of success naturally encourages members to show up for meetings, schedule dance cards, attend trainings and use the tools. Members and guests alike say Thursday morning is the highlight of their work week. It takes only one visit to know our members are active, enthusiastic and intimately familiar with one another's businesses.
Submitted by Executive Directors Mike and Debbie Roberts and Joe Melton.
United States
Awards and Recognition
Gold Club (Black Badge) members:
Cinco Ranch Chapter of Houston West Region: Melissa Bristol & Eileen Newsome
BNI Go Getters of Houston West Region: Sue Long
Winners' Circle BNI Chapter: Bruce Dolen
The Woodlands BNI Preferred Connection Chapter: Gwen Plauche
Submitted by Kathleen A. Mathy, Executive Director, Houston West Region
Founders Awards:
River City, Fireside, Lake Superior, W.I.N., Rapid Referral & South Metro.
Submitted by Nancy Giacomuzzi, Executive Director, BNI Minnesota
