February 2008
Art of Networking |
With each new year, our business leadership team takes time to reflect on practices that were and weren't successful from the previous year. I am proud to say when it comes to our marketing, being an ACTIVE participant of BNI is by far the most successful tool we utilize.
During 2007, my company, Burnside Body Shop, received over $80,000 worth of new business from BNI referrals. We are a prime example of "You get what you give." I was part of the core group, which started our chapter about three years ago. I have served on the chapter leadership team, visited other chapters, taken part in every BNI special event that I could, and have received a number of Notable Networker Awards for the referrals I have given. I am now an area director and enjoy facilitating the growth of other chapters. And, our office manager is a member of another Modesto chapter.
Our business recognizes the true value of BNI and what it offers to its members. The only thing you have to do as a BNI member is to embrace the motto "Givers Gain" and soon it will be returned to you, too!
Submitted by Stephanie Burnside, Burnside Body Shop, BNI Modesto Nooners Chapter
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"The more people you get on board, the more everyone makes," says Jeff Goldsberry, owner of Let It Shine, a lighting business in Bloomington, Indiana. After joining BNI in the last week of September 2007, he generated 17 referrals in October for other members of his Central Indiana chapter, Hoosier Success.
He's also found that referrals from his fellow members have made a real difference in his business: "My sales have increased by $800 a week, all from BNI referrals. That's over $9300 in new business in 11 weeks."
Goldsberry started his business of color correcting lighting and energy solutions in June of 2001. He and his wife are the only employees.
Since he began his business, Goldsberry has always made it a habit to help others. Duke Energy, the region's power company, recently informed him that he gives out more rebate applications than anyone else in South-Central Indiana.
What's his motivation? Goldsberry states, "It's like what BNI Founder Ivan Misner says: Givers Gain. It's so easy; it's just conversational—you're just helping people."
Submitted by Jill Bode, "The Central Indiana PR Chick"
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I am a proud member of the first BNI chapter in Bangalore, India: Awesome Chapter.
My respect for BNI increased after I watched many of the special presentations offered online. The content of that day was rich; I have never felt this good after a day-long conference.
Thanks to people like Niraj Shah and Niri Patel and all the fantastic people behind BNI—budding entrepreneurs like me have a great medium to leverage. Thank you once again for your amazing vision and for helping us grow, not by little steps but by giant leaps.
Submitted by Sandeep Nanu, CBEYOND, The Newsletter Specialists
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BNI is awesome. It has given credence to my age-old belief in word-of-mouth referrals. Business is about trust and credibility—the same side of the coin. Reliability and familiarity are the other side. People tend to work with familiar and trusted people. I feel privileged to lead the Awesome Chapter—BNI's first chapter in Bangalore, India. It has changed my way of working completely. Instead of focusing on my own business needs, I'm learning and helping another 30 businesses! My business, Fraser Techno Circuits Limited, is beginning to reap the benefits. I am receiving referrals and inquiries from sectors I have never worked with.
Submitted by Narendra Damani, BNI Awesome Chapter
Benefitting from the Networking Secrets CD
I recently listened to the BNI Networking Secrets CDs. From my experience as a BNI director and member in Western Pennsylvania, I have learned that a new member's maximum success depends on getting education on how to work the BNI system. Member Success Program (MSP) is an excellent program. Sometimes, however, because of schedule conflicts and a lack of a sense of urgency, members wait 30 to 60 days to attend. I've heard many new members say that it would have been highly beneficial to attend the training sooner and wished they had done so.
The BNI Networking Secrets CDs is a phenomenal addition to our education toolkit. Dr. Ivan Misner gives the basics of the BNI system and explains not only the nuts and bolts, but the "whys" behind the system. If a new member leaves their first meeting after induction and listens to the CDs right away, they will jump start their membership even before they attend MSP. It's incredible to hear the material we deliver in MSP directly from the founder of BNI. He has an unparalled ability to communicate the philosophy and spirit of the organization and how to make it work for you.
I also recommend it for seasoned members. Successful members attend MSP on a regular basis for refreshers and also attend Advanced Training sessions.
I highly recommend the BNI Networking Secrets CD set.
Linda Schumacher, Assistant Director, BNI of Western Pennsylvania
Have you listened to BNI's weekly internet recording, also known as the BNI Podcast?