The BNI Way: Building Relationships

Posted on by BNI Global

Written by Chad Hayes, BNI Member in Vermont, USA

As an insurance agent, I have tried everything in the book to drum up new business. We sales people know how hard it can be to create relationships in your community that lead to new business sales. I’ve tried it all. From mass mailings to email blasts, and even going door to door knocking in hopes to get just one or two people interested in the services I provide. Since finding BNI®, I no longer do any of that! BNI has helped me realize there are better ways to build relationships that make us money!

When someone mentions BNI to you they will most likely talk about how much money has been passed in their Chapter on an annual basis or the lifetime of their Chapter. This is a huge incentive to want to apply to a BNI Chapter, but certainly not the only reason. The value you get when you become a referral partner is so much more than money.

The reason I say money passed between referral partners (or Thank You for Closed Business) isn’t the greatest value, is because these people you meet with every week become family. They will be at your wedding and children’s events. You will build relationships that will last a lifetime. That’s where the value is for me! But, like I said before, we all hate doing cold calling and at the end of the day, we are in BNI to make money.

This team can and does become a steady referral source. These referrals are vetted and expecting you to call them. They are looking for the service or product you offer. And all of this makes my life so much easier knowing when a referral comes through to me that they are excited to see if what I offer can save them money.

In my 4+ years with BNI, I have received many referrals that I will never forget. Some of my biggest clients came from my BNI family. I have also given referrals that helped a friend or client and helped my fellow referral partner. It’s nice to know that when someone you know, or one of your clients needs help buying a new house or selling theirs, I have a team to help them in the process. I can then refer them to a realtor, real estate attorney, mortgage originator and insurance agent.

To me, The BNI Way is knowing that the relationships I have built week in and week out are there for me when I need something! I was fortunate enough to marry the love of my life last October. As we said “I do”, we stood under a beautiful arbor that was built the week prior by myself and two friends. One of which just so happens to be a referral partner in my BNI Chapter. Without BNI, he and I would have never met or built the relationship that we have today. This is only one example of the amazing people in BNI.

Chad Hayes is an Ambassador with the BNI Vermont Team, an insurance agent with Carter Insurance, and has been a referral partner with Middlebury BNI in Middlebury, Vermont, USA since 2015. He has also been a powerful Chapter President and Vice
President and is his Chapter’s Mentor Coordinator.

The Key to Long-Term Business Success

Posted on by BNI Global

In today’s fiercely competitive business world, achieving long-term success is no easy feat. While acquiring new customers is important, it is equally vital to focus on retaining existing ones. Customer retention holds the key to sustained growth, profitability, and a strong brand reputation. In this blog post, we will delve into the significance of customer retention and explore effective strategies to achieve it, ensuring the success of your business in the long run.

Customer retention is the art of nurturing and maintaining relationships with your existing customer base. Here are three reasons why it should be a top priority for any business:

  • Increased Revenue: Retaining customers is more cost-effective than acquiring new ones. Existing customers tend to spend more as time goes on, contributing to higher revenue and improved profitability.
  • Brand Loyalty and Advocacy: Loyal customers become your brand ambassadors, sharing positive experiences with others, and attracting new customers through word-of-mouth referrals.
  • Competitive Advantage: By focusing on customer retention, you differentiate your business from competitors. By delivering exceptional experiences and building lasting relationships, you establish a reputation that sets you apart.

Customer retention is undeniably crucial for long-term business success. Now that we understand its significance, let’s explore practical strategies that can help unlock its benefits. Here are five easy-to-implement strategies that you can start using in your business today.

1. Personalize the Customer Experience

To foster stronger customer relationships, personalize the experience based on individual preferences and needs. Leverage customer data to understand their buying behavior, demographics, and preferences. Tailor your communication, product recommendations, and promotions to create a personalized journey that resonates with each customer.

2. Build Strong Relationships

Build meaningful connections with your customers. Engage with them on multiple platforms, such as social media, email marketing, and in-person interactions. Create a sense of trust and loyalty by providing consistent support, being responsive, and offering valuable content that resonates with their interests and pain points.

3. Deliver Exceptional Customer Service

Delivering exceptional customer service is a powerful retention strategy. Train your team to go above and beyond in addressing customer inquiries, resolving issues promptly, and providing a positive experience at every touchpoint. Actively listen to customer feedback and continuously improve your service based on their suggestions.

4. Implement Customer Loyalty Programs

Reward customer loyalty through well-designed loyalty programs. Offer exclusive discounts, special access to new products or services, or personalized perks that incentivize repeat business.

5. Seek and Act on Customer Feedback

Regularly seek feedback from your customers through surveys, reviews, and social media monitoring. Actively address their concerns and use their suggestions to continuously improve your offerings and overall customer experience.

Customer retention is the cornerstone of long-term business success. By prioritizing the retention of existing customers, you can drive revenue growth, cultivate brand loyalty, and gain a competitive edge. Remember, achieving customer retention is an ongoing process that requires dedication and continuous improvement. By investing in personalized experiences, exceptional service, and proactive strategies, you can create a loyal customer base that not only supports your business but also becomes your brand’s most powerful advocate. Embrace the power of customer retention and unlock the potential for long-term success in your business.

The Dos and Don’ts of Networking: Etiquette Tips for Success

Posted on by BNI Global

As a business professional, networking is an essential part of building relationships and growing your business. Whether you’re attending a networking event or meeting with a potential client, how you present yourself and interact with others can make all the difference. In this blog post, we’ll discuss the dos and don’ts of networking, and provide etiquette tips for success.

Do: Be Authentic

One of the most important things you can do when networking is to be authentic. People can tell when you’re not being genuine, and it can be a major turn-off. Instead, focus on being yourself and building real relationships with people. This will help you build trust and credibility, which is essential in any business relationship.

Don’t: Be Too Aggressive

While it’s important to be confident when networking, you don’t want to come across as too aggressive. No one likes feeling pressured, so instead of pushing your agenda, focus on building a rapport with the person you’re talking to. This will help you establish a foundation for a long-term relationship.

Do: Listen More Than You Talk

When networking, it’s important to remember that it’s not just about you. Listening is one of the most important skills you can develop as a networker. By actively listening to the person you’re talking to, you’ll be able to better understand their needs and how you can help them. This will also help you build a deeper connection with them, which can lead to long-term success.

Don’t: Forget to Follow Up

Following up is a crucial part of networking. After meeting someone, make sure to send them an email or LinkedIn message to continue the conversation. This shows that you’re interested in building a relationship and that you value their time. Additionally, it can help keep you top-of-mind for future opportunities.

Do: Be Professional

While it’s important to be authentic, you also want to make sure you’re presenting yourself in a professional manner. This means dressing appropriately for the event, using proper grammar and etiquette, and being respectful of others. Remember, you’re building a business relationship, so you want to make sure you’re presenting yourself in the best possible light.

Don’t: Be Negative

No one likes a negative person, so avoid complaining or talking negatively about others when networking. Instead, focus on positive topics and finding common ground with the person you’re talking to. This will help you establish a positive rapport and build a strong foundation for a long-term relationship.

In conclusion, networking is an essential part of building relationships and growing your business. By following these dos and don’ts of networking, you can establish yourself as a professional, build strong relationships, and set yourself up for long-term success. So, get out there, be yourself, and start building those relationships!

6 Proven Time Management Tips for BNI? Success

Posted on by BNI Global

?Your greatest asset is your earning ability. Your greatest resource is your time.? 

??Brian Tracy, Canadian American Author & Speaker 

Your time is a limited resource. Everyone gets the same 24 hours in a day, and it is important to use part of that time wisely when networking. In this article, we will delve into effective time management strategies, specifically designed to cater to the unique needs of BNI Members. By implementing these practical tips, you will optimize your networking efforts and maximize the value you derive from your time investment. 

Define Your Objectives and Prioritize  

Start by clearly defining your objectives related to your BNI? membership. You can accomplish this by determining what you would like to achieve and identifying specific goals (e.g., a specific number of referrals or dollar amount in closed business). Once you have clarity on your objectives, prioritize your activities accordingly. Focus on tasks that align with your goals and have the most significant impact on your business growth. Keep in mind that success in BNI starts with Givers Gain?, so focus on building reciprocal relationships. 

Plan and Schedule  

Develop a strategic plan and schedule to effectively manage your time within BNI. Allocate dedicated time slots for weekly BNI meetings, Chapter events, and 1-2-1 meetings with fellow Members. By planning and scheduling your BNI activities, you ensure that they receive the necessary attention while avoiding conflicts with other commitments. 

Stay Actively Engaged in BNI Meetings  

During your weekly meetings, make the most of your time by participating in all aspects of the agenda. Come prepared with a clear and concise Weekly Presentation that highlights your business and makes it easy for Members to bring you referrals. Focus on building meaningful connections with other Members by actively listening, taking notes, asking questions, and making introductions to potential referral partners. The more engaged you are, the quicker you?ll reach your goals. 

Leverage BNI Tools and Resources  

BNI provides various educational tools and marketing resources that help you promote your Chapter and grow your business. Familiarize yourself with the BNI Connect website and mobile app, which allows you to manage your profile, track participation, and connect with other Members online. Utilize the BNI mobile app to invite Visitors and record your activities (referrals, 1-2-1s, CEUs, and TYFCB) in real time. By leveraging these tools, you?ll streamline your networking efforts and save time. 

Build Relationships Outside of Meetings  

Effective networking extends beyond your BNI meeting. Take the initiative to connect with fellow Members outside of scheduled events. Schedule in-person and/or virtual  

1-2-1s to deepen your relationships, understand each other’s businesses better, and explore collaboration opportunities as a Power Team. Here are some tips for a productive 1-2-1. 

Leverage Your Contact Sphere/Power Team 

Recognize that you don’t have to handle every aspect of growing your business on your own. This is the benefit of working with a strong Contact Sphere or Power Team. Identify areas where you should feel free to ask for help or collaborate with other BNI Members. By leveraging each other’s expertise, you can save time and tap into new business opportunities. Build a network of trusted professionals within BNI who can support you in areas outside your core strengths. 

As a BNI Member, effectively managing your time is crucial for leveraging the benefits of this powerful networking organization. BNI offers a wealth of opportunities for referrals and business growth, and by managing your time effectively, you can make the most of your membership in the shortest amount of time.  

3 Easy Steps to Create a SWOT Analysis

Posted on by BNI Global

In business, understanding your position and planning for the future are keys to your success. A time-tested tool that can help you do this is a SWOT analysis. SWOT stands for Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, and Threats, and it offers a detailed yet straightforward way to assess your business, internally and externally. But how do you conduct a SWOT analysis? Here are three easy steps for small businesses:

1. Understanding and Preparing for Your SWOT Analysis

The first step towards conducting a SWOT analysis is to understand what’s involved. Strengths and weaknesses refer to internal factors within your business — things that you have control over. Opportunities and threats, on the other hand, are external factors — elements outside your business that can affect your operations, but which you don’t have control over.

2. Conducting Your SWOT Analysis

Let’s assume you have a small team that can help you identify each SWOT component. Start with strengths. Consider what gives your business a competitive advantage. This could be anything from a stellar reputation, dedicated staff, to unique products or services.

Next, identify your weaknesses. These are areas where your business could improve. This isn’t about being negative — it’s about understanding areas for growth.

Then, identify the opportunities for your business. This could be emerging trends, market changes, or technological advancements that your business could capitalize on. Remember, these are external factors that could benefit your business.

Finally, identify potential threats to your business. These could include new competitors, compliance changes, or economic volatility. Identifying threats is all about being prepared for future challenges.

3. Visualizing and Applying Your SWOT Analysis

Once you’ve identified your SWOT components, an effective way to present them is with a SWOT diagram. Here’s a simple one:

With your SWOT analysis in place, it’s time to apply it. The real value comes from using this analysis to guide your strategic planning. For example, you could leverage your strengths to take advantage of opportunities or make a plan to improve your weaknesses and mitigate potential threats.

Let’s illustrate this with an example. Imagine a small catering company that specializes in local and organic cuisine. Their strengths might include a talented chef and a reputation for excellent customer service. Weaknesses might be a small team that limits the scale of events they can handle. Opportunities could be a growing trend towards organic food in their city, while threats could include a larger catering company moving into their area.

The company could leverage their strengths by marketing their unique food offerings and exceptional service to tap into the growing organic food trend. They could address their weaknesses by hiring more staff or partnering with a freelance chef during larger events. To counter the threat of larger competitors, they could focus on building strong relationships with local businesses, event planners and venues. Applying to a BNI Chapter would be a great way to meet potential clients and referral partners.

As your business environment changes, your SWOT analysis should adapt accordingly. Periodic reassessment will ensure you’re staying ahead of changes and can adjust your strategies as needed. It is suggested you revisit and revise your SWOT analysis every six months. For a small business, this tool can act as your compass, guiding you towards continued success and growth in your profession.

5 Best Practices for Inviting Visitors to Your BNI Chapter Meeting

Posted on by BNI Global

One of the key components of the BNI networking platform is its weekly Chapter meetings, where Members and visitors come together to network and build relationships. As a BNI Member, inviting visitors to your Chapter meeting can lead to many valuable benefits, including increased exposure for your business and enhanced networking and referral opportunities. In this blog post, we’ll discuss 5 best practices for inviting visitors to your BNI Chapter meeting.

Tip #1: Know Your Visitor’s Business

One of the most important things you can do when inviting a visitor to your BNI Chapter meeting is to learn about their business beforehand. By doing so, you can tailor your invitation to their specific needs and interests. For example, if your visitor is a real estate agent, you might highlight the success stories of other real estate agents in your Chapter. Conversely, if your visitor is a financial planner, you might focus on the financial success stories of the Members in your Chapter. By understanding your visitors’ business, you can make a compelling case for why they should attend your Chapter meeting.

Tip #2:  Don’t Forget to Follow Up

After inviting a visitor to your BNI Chapter meeting, it’s important to follow up with them. This can be as simple as sending a reminder email the day before the meeting. Following up shows your visitor that you are interested in their attendance and value their time. Additionally, it can help ensure that they show up to the meeting.

Tip #3: Be Consistent with Invitations

Consistency is key when it comes to inviting visitors to your BNI Chapter meeting. If you only invite visitors sporadically, you’re unlikely to see any real results. Instead, make a concerted effort to invite visitors on a regular basis. Set a goal for yourself to invite at least one new visitor to each meeting. By being consistent with your invitations, you’ll increase the likelihood of attracting new Members to your Chapter.

Tip #4: Offer Value to Your Visitors

When inviting visitors to your BNI Chapter meeting, it’s important to highlight the value that they’ll receive by attending. Be sure to explain how BNI can help their business grow through word-of-mouth referrals and highlight how BNI has made a significant impact on you and your fellow Members’ businesses.

Tip #5: Be Helpful, Not Pushy

Finally, it’s important to avoid being too pushy when inviting visitors to your meeting. While it’s important to be enthusiastic about the benefits of BNI, you don’t want to come across as aggressive or desperate. Instead, focus on building a relationship with your visitor and demonstrating how BNI can help them achieve their goals. By being authentic and respectful, you’ll increase the likelihood of your visitor joining your Chapter.

Inviting visitors to your Chapter meeting can be a great way to grow your business and build relationships.  Consider some of these helpful inviting tips from Dr. Ivan Misner in his blog post “If You’re Not Inviting, You’re Missing Out.” By knowing your visitor’s business, following up consistently, offering value, and being authentic, you’ll increase the likelihood of attracting new Members to your Chapter. So, get out there and start inviting visitors today!

1-2-1s That Grow Your Business

Posted on by BNI Global

All BNI Members are asked to have at least one 1-2-1 per week. As a new Member, you should do as many as possible. Productive 1-2-1s give you the insight needed to refer fellow Members while building a strong relationship with them. We often hear that more quality referrals come from 1-2-1s than in the weekly meeting.

Here are 10 steps for a productive 1-2-1 that will grow your business:

1. Preparation

Schedule the meeting in advance, allowing both parties ample time to prepare. Set a clear agenda outlining the topics to be covered and share any relevant background information. In addition, fill out and email a GAINS Exchange a few days before you meet. As a courtesy, attach a blank one along with yours, in case your referral partner doesn’t have the form handy.

2. Punctuality

Arrive on time to show respect for the other person’s schedule and to maximize the meeting’s productivity. Showing up on time tells the other person that you’re taking this meeting seriously and that you’re ready to talk business.

3. Listening

Practice active listening by giving the other person your full attention, maintaining eye contact, and resisting the urge to interrupt. Take notes as needed.

4. Asking Open-Ended Questions

Encourage conversation by asking open-ended questions that allow the other person to share more about their business, experiences, and goals. This is especially important when you’re meeting with new or shy Members.

5. Sharing Personal Stories

Build rapport by sharing personal stories and experiences, which can help create a deeper connection and understanding between both parties. Stories about your business are also important. They are easy to remember as opposed to stats and figures.

6. Establishing Goals

It’s an important part of the GAINS Exchange. Talking about your goals makes your referral partner want to help you achieve them.

7. Discussing Referrals and Introductions

Take time to discuss potential referrals, focusing on the types of clients or businesses each person is seeking and how to identify those opportunities. In addition, think of specific people you’d like to meet. You never know who people know, so be sure to name them.

8. Providing Value

Offer helpful advice, resources, or connections to support your referral partner’s business growth and development.

9. Following Up

Here’s the most important part of the meeting — one that is often left out and could cost you some business. At the end of the 1-2-1, set a time for a follow-up on your commitments.

For example, you could say: “During our meeting, we agreed that I would introduce you to [person’s name] who could be a valuable connection for your business. I will reach out to them by [specific date] and keep you updated on the progress. In return, you agreed to ask your friend if I could contact him about a potential collaboration. Let’s touch base again on [specific date] to discuss the outcomes and explore further opportunities to support each other’s businesses.”

10. Recording the 1-2-1

Before you leave, be sure to open the BNI Connect app and log your 1-2-1 as completed.

Following these 10 steps will give you the best chance for business success and a bigger ROI from your BNI membership!

How Referral Follow-Up Maximizes Your Success in BNI?

Posted on by BNI Global

The primary reason almost every BNI? Member has for joining this amazing organization is the opportunity for referrals. It?s what we do here at BNI. However, passing a referral is just the first step in the process. It’s important to follow up on referrals to ensure that they are properly taken care of ? and that they result in successful outcomes for all parties involved.

Build Trust & Credibility

Following up on referrals is important for several reasons. First, it helps to build trust and credibility between the referring Member and the recipient. When a referral is passed, the referring Member is putting their reputation on the line by recommending someone to their client or contact. If the referral goes unanswered or unacknowledged, it can reflect poorly on both the referring Member and the recipient. Following up on referrals shows that the referral giver is committed to helping their clients and contacts, and that they take their recommendations seriously.

Ensure Qualification & Fit

Second, following up on referrals can help to ensure that the referral is properly qualified and that the recipient is a good fit for the referral. Not all referrals are created equal, and not all referrals will result in successful outcomes. By following up on referrals, the referral passer can ensure that the recipient has received the referral, that they understand the referral, and that they are the right person to follow up with. This can save time and effort for both parties involved ? and can help to ensure that the referral is a good fit for everyone.

Generate New Business

Third, following up on referrals can help to close the loop and generate new business for both the referring Member and the recipient. When a referral is passed and followed up on successfully, it can lead to new business opportunities for both parties. For the referring Member, it can lead to new referrals from the recipient, as well as increased credibility and trust with their clients and contacts. For the referral recipient, it can lead to new business from the referral, as well as increased visibility and credibility within the BNI network. Best of all, it can lead to a reciprocal relationship where both parties continue to give business to each other in their dynamic power team.

Tips for Effective Referral Follow-Up

So, how can you ensure that you are following up on BNI referrals effectively? Here are a few tips:

  • Make it a priority. Following up on referrals should be a top priority for all BNI Members. Set aside time each week to review your referrals and follow up with the recipients.
  • Be timely. Follow up with referrals as soon as possible after receiving them. This shows that you are actively committed to helping your clients and contacts.
  • Stay in touch. If you don’t hear back from a referral recipient, don’t give up. Follow up with them multiple times, through different channels if necessary (e.g. email, phone, text, in-person).
  • Provide feedback. When following up on referrals, provide feedback to the referring Member ? ideally in a 1-2-1 ? on how the referral was received and whether it resulted in new business. This helps to build trust and credibility within your BNI network. And don?t forget to give a testimonial to thank the referral recipient for a job well done!

When you make follow-up a priority, you maximize the value of your referrals and build strong, lasting relationships within your Chapter.

Want Referrals for Life?? Simply Follow BNI’s 7 Core Values

Posted on by BNI Global

Maintaining a successful business is a goal that drives us as entrepreneurs and business professionals. But how do we build a business that not only thrives but also attracts a constant stream of referrals? The answer lies in adopting the Core Values of the world’s leading business networking organization. By embracing BNI’s 7 Core Values, you will not only grow your business, but also increase your visibility within your community, making you a magnet for referrals.

1. Givers Gain?

The first Core Value of BNI? is the principle of Givers Gain?. This simple yet powerful philosophy states that by giving business to others, they will want to give business to you. In other words, if you help others succeed, they in turn will be motivated to help you.

To apply this principle, focus on building relationships with other business owners and professionals within your community. Be willing to help, support, and offer your expertise whenever you can. By doing so, you’ll be seen as an asset and people will be more likely to refer business to you. Remember: give unconditionally. It will open new doors and create new referral opportunities.

2. Building Relationships

At the heart of any BNI Member’s success is the importance of building strong, long-lasting relationships. Relationships are the foundation of any successful business, and by fostering genuine connections with others, you will create a network of people who trust and support you.

To build strong relationships, focus on getting to know people on a deeper level. Have meaningful 1-2-1s. Give heartfelt, memorable testimonials. Share your expertise and mentor those new to networking. By being present and active, you’ll demonstrate that you’re committed to creating meaningful connections and growing your network.

3. Lifelong Learning

The third Core Value of BNI is Lifelong Learning. By continuously seeking out new knowledge and staying up to date with the latest industry trends, you’ll be able to offer valuable insights and solutions to your clients and peers.

To practice Lifelong Learning, attend BNI trainings, webinars, and Leadership Team meetings. Follow us on LinkedIn. Subscribe to BNI SuccessNet. Stay current with educational opportunities in your field. Read industry publications and relevant blogs. By investing in your professional development, you’ll become a trusted, go-to expert in your industry, increasing your credibility along with your chances of receiving referrals.

4. Traditions + Innovation

BNI values the importance of balancing traditions with innovation. Respecting tried-and-true methods is essential, but so is being open to new ideas and ways of doing things.

To embody this value, adapt and evolve your business practices as needed. Keep an open mind and be receptive to new technologies, tools, and methods that can help you stay ahead of the competition. By embracing innovation and respecting traditions, you’ll create a business that’s built to last and worthy of attracting referrals.

5. Positive Attitude

A positive attitude can make all the difference in your personal and professional life. By approaching challenges with optimism and resilience, you’ll be more likely to find creative solutions and inspire confidence in those around you. And besides, no one wants to do business with a negative person.

To maintain a positive attitude, practice gratitude, focus on your accomplishments, and surround yourself with like-minded individuals. By doing so, you’ll create an uplifting environment that will not only help you succeed but also attract others who want to be part of your success story. Where better to find these people than in your own BNI Chapter?

6. Accountability

BNI’s sixth Core Value is Accountability, which means being responsible for your actions and following through on your commitments. When you’re accountable, others can trust that you’ll deliver on your promises and that you’ll be there to support them in their time of need.

To demonstrate accountability, establish manageable goals and expectations for yourself, your business, and your BNI membership. Communicate openly and honestly with your clients and referral partners, and always follow through on your commitments. By holding yourself accountable, you’ll build that all-important trust within your Chapter, making your fellow BNI Members more likely to refer business to you.

7. Recognition

The final Core Value of BNI is Recognition. By acknowledging the achievements and contributions of others, you can foster a supportive environment where everyone feels valued and appreciated.

To practice recognition, take the time to celebrate the successes of your clients, colleagues, and fellow BNI Members. Share their accomplishments on social media, write them a sincere thank-you note, or give them a shout-out in your Chapter meeting and on social media. By recognizing the hard work and dedication of others, you’ll create a culture of mutual support, strengthening your relationship and making it more likely for others to refer business to you.

Harness The Power of BNI’s Core Values

By following BNI’s 7 Core Values, you’ll create a powerful foundation for success inside and outside of BNI. Not only will you grow your business and increase your visibility within your community, but you’ll also become a person deserving of referrals for life.

Remember, the key to unlocking a constant stream of referrals is to give without expecting anything in return, build strong relationships, commit to lifelong learning, balance tradition with innovation, maintain a positive attitude, hold yourself accountable, and recognize the achievements of others.

Start implementing BNI’s Core Values today and watch your business soar to new heights!

3 Reasons More Visitors Mean More Value

Posted on by BNI Global

As a business owner, you know the importance of networking and building strong connections with other professionals. That’s why you joined BNI. But have you considered the impact that visitors can have on your BNI membership? Here are the top 3 reasons why an increase in visitors improves the overall value of your BNI membership:

1. Increased Exposure and Referrals

With more visitors attending meetings, BNI Members have more opportunities to promote their business to potential customers and receive referrals from other Members and visitors.

2. Strengthened Business Growth

Ultimately, the goal of BNI is to help Members grow their businesses. With more visitors attending meetings, Members have access to more resources and opportunities that can help them achieve their business goals and generate new business. By creating a more dynamic community of business professionals, BNI Members can tap into a wider range of skills, knowledge, and contacts that can help them thrive in today’s competitive business landscape.

3. Broadened Category Exclusivity and Complementary Categories

Visitors are the lifeblood of BNI Chapters, as they play a critical role in creating a diverse and inclusive membership that is essential for building a robust referral network. By filling in missing categories and complementary businesses, visitors help to ensure that BNI Chapters are well-rounded and comprehensive, allowing all Members to benefit from a wider range of referrals and opportunities. This not only increases the value of BNI membership, but also makes each Chapter more effective and successful in helping businesses grow and thrive.

Having more visitors attend your BNI Chapter can have a significant impact on the value you receive from your membership. Increased exposure, enhanced networking and referral opportunities, and strengthened business growth are just a few of the benefits you can experience.

Not a BNI Member yet and ready to take your business to the next level? Visit a BNI Chapter today to build valuable connections with entrepreneurs and business professionals and discover the opportunities waiting for you.

Long-Term Business Success Through Personal Connections

Posted on by BNI Global

In today’s digital age, it’s easy to fall into the trap of relying solely on online marketing and social media to build your business. While these tools can be effective, they cannot replace the power of personal connections when it comes to long-term business success. For Members of BNI®, cultivating personal relationships with other Members is a critical aspect of growing their businesses. The concept of Referrals for Life® is all about taking that value to the next level, by committing to a long-term approach to networking and referral generation. In this post, we’ll explore the importance of personal connections on long-term business success and how BNI Members can leverage those connections for maximum benefit.

Building Long-Term Business Success through Personal Relationships

At its essence, BNI’s philosophy of Givers Gain® means that by giving business to others, you will receive business in return. This philosophy is built on the understanding that networking is not just about making sales, but about building long-term relationships based on trust, respect, and mutual benefit. This is especially true when it comes to generating referrals, which are the lifeblood of many BNI Members’ businesses. When you have a personal relationship with someone, you are more likely to trust them and refer business to them. This trust is built over time, through regular interactions and shared experiences.

Personal connections are a key component of long-term business success. When it comes to networking and building relationships, few organizations are as effective as BNI. BNI provides business owners and professionals with a platform to connect with others in their industry, build relationships, and generate new business opportunities.

From Visitor to Member: Tammy Samuel’s BNI Success Story

Tammy Samuel, a current BNI Member in BNI USA, shares her experience with BNI. She says, “I first heard about BNI through my franchise mentor and every time we spoke, he would ask, ‘Have you joined yet?’ When I finally gave in and went to a meeting, I fell in love with the friendship of the team, the family-like feel, the constant referrals everyone spoke about, and genuine desire to watch everyone be successful. Within the first 3 months of being a Member, the referrals I received paid for my annual membership fee.”

Beyond Referrals: The Additional Benefits of Cultivating Personal Connections

But the value of personal connections extends beyond just generating referrals. When you have a network of trusted colleagues and friends, you have a support system to turn to when you need advice, resources, or just a listening ear. Business can be tough, and it’s essential to have people in your corner who understand what you’re going through and can offer guidance and support.

Personal connections are a key component of long-term business success. By building genuine relationships with others in their Chapter, BNI Members can generate more referrals, establish a support system, and lay the foundation for a thriving business that can last for years or even decades. Referrals for Life® is all about taking a long-term approach to networking and referral generation, and personal connections are a critical part of that approach. So, take the time to get to know your fellow BNI Members and invest in those relationships for the long haul. The rewards will be well worth it.

If you’re not a BNI Member yet, don’t miss your chance! Visit a BNI Chapter today. If you’ve been searching for strategies for business development, you’ve come to the right place! BNI has more than 38 years of experience in entrepreneur networking and education. We can’t wait to meet you!

Join Us for International Networking Week?

Posted on by BNI Global

Blog Post

Join Us for International Networking Week?

For the sixteenth consecutive year, BNI? is celebrating International Networking Week?. From February 5th ? February 11th, BNI members from around the world will come together to network, share their success stories, and invite others to experience the benefits of referral marketing.

This exciting weekly event began as a way to help business leaders around the world connect and build their networking skills together within a global entrepreneurship network. Today, International Networking Week? has grown into a world-class week of small business networking activities with Members from more than 75 countries taking part!

Opportunities to Network and Connect

International Networking Week? is an incredible opportunity for BNI Members to expand their network. BNI Chapters are hosting exciting networking events to help Members build strong relationships, generate valuable referrals, and connect with local entrepreneurs and business professionals.

Culturally Diverse Perspectives

One of the best things about International Networking Week? is the chance to connect with BNI members from different industries, countries and cultures. This diversity of perspectives can provide the valuable insights, fresh ideas and new opportunities for growth that only an organization like BNI can. Additionally, International Networking Week? is an opportunity to learn from BNI’s top leaders and trainers, who generously share their wisdom and experience on a variety of topics related to referral networking and business growth.

International Speed Networking ? February 7, 2023

We invite you to participate on Tuesday, February 7th for a day full of International Speed Networking, hosted by experienced BNI leaders around the world. We will host six exclusive sessions ?  7am GMT; 12pm GMT; 2pm GMT; 4pm GMT; 6pm GMT;  and  10pm GMT  ?  where you will have the opportunity to build your networks and learn from business leaders around the world. These free business networking events WILL max out to capacity, so make sure to reserve your spot today by clicking on the linked times above. Invite a friend: for the first time we have opened registration to BNI alumni and non-Members!

Referrals for Life Webinar ? February 8, 2023

Join us for the Referrals for Life Webinar on Wednesday, February 8th, at 2pm GMT (9am ET) to set your business up for success in 2023. BNI Chairman and CEO Graham Weihmiller will share 2023 global business trends and predictions. Then, BNI Founder and Chief Visionary Officer Dr. Ivan Misner will discuss the importance and relevance of networking in today’s business landscape. Lastly, a panel of BNI Members will share their success stories showing how BNI provides Referrals for Life. Register here.

International Networking Week? is an incredible week of networking and events that you don’t want to miss. If you’re already a BNI Member, we highly encourage you to take full advantage of the events and opportunities available during International Networking Week?.

If you’re not a BNI member yet, don’t miss your chance! Visit a BNI Chapter or register for the events above. If you?ve been searching for strategies for business development, you?ve come to the right place! BNI has more than 38 years of experience in entrepreneur networking and education. We can?t wait to meet you!

3 Ways to Attract the Customers You Deserve

Posted on by Ivan Misner, Ph.D.

How to be the go-to problem-solver for your desired target market.

If you’ve yet to read 2020’s, The Connector Effect by Dr. Ivan Misner, Graham Weihmiller and Robert Skrob (or the current podcast it spawned), below is a crash course on all that these networking gurus preach when it comes to corralling the ideal customer.

For starters — and within two minutes, tops — write a response to each of the below questions or requests. Don’t overthink your answers and know that the more you treat this as a lightning-round style exercise, the more you’ll get out of it.

Describe your ideal customer

Many would-be marketers fail because they never define a target client. Instead, they use words like “everybody” or “anybody.” Defining a target market gives referral partners a mental picture of the best customer to refer to you.

Answer the following if your clients are consumers:

  1. Think of a person who is already a great customer for you: what area do they live in?
  2. What is their family status and profession?
  3. How does their household income compare with the average?
  4. What are they planning, bragging or complaining about?

If your clients are other businesses, answer these questions:

  1. Think of a company that is already a great customer for you: What line of business is that customer in?
  2. What’s the approximate size?
  3. Who makes the buying decisions for your product or service?
  4. What’s the problem they are trying to solve when buying your product?

By being specific you are serving your chapter members by giving them a clear idea of your ideal patron. The more detailed you are, the more effective they will be in finding those referrals for you.

What problems are you solving for these assets?

Too many business people talk about their products and services. This sounds self-serving but, in actuality, talking about the problems you solve makes you into a giver who attracts customers.

  1. List at least three problems your good customer has that makes them ideal for your business.
  2. What is the worst thing that could possibly happen to your clients if their problems aren’t solved?
  3. What is the best thing that can happen once their problems are solved?
  4. Do you have success stories to illustrate how you help your customers? (Client testimonials are a great way to give your network a clearer idea of what exactly you deliver and they demonstrate that your group members can trust you to deliver what you promise.)

Perfect your presentation

Now let’s pull the above information into a brief presentation.

Here are the three elements of the perfect business introduction:

  1. State your professional classification.
  2. Tell a brief story about a problem you solved for a customer.
  3. Request a referral – who do you know who is [insert target customer] who suffers from the issue you corrected. Be specific!

Once you learn how to create these presentations for your business, you can use this skill for any club, charity or campaign you lead.

What To Do When Things Go Wrong

Posted on by Ivan Misner, Ph.D.

My eldest daughter, Ashley, got married earlier this year. The wedding was at a little venue nestled in Southern California near the ocean.

I experienced something during the wedding that is a great lesson for entrepreneurs everywhere. The sign of a good team is when they do their job well when everything around them is going right. The sign of a GREAT team is when they do their job well when something out of their control goes completely wrong – and yet, they find a solution. Finding solutions to unexpected problems is a strength for any business.

A couple hours before my daughter’s wedding, a vehicle took out a transformer in the neighborhood and the venue lost all power. This was a disaster in the making. However, the manager drove to a hardware store, and actually bought several generators which his team hooked up to the venue just in time for the wedding.

While the wedding party was frenetic over the loss of power, the manager and his team remained calm (at least in front of us) and positive that all would be right with the world, and they would take care of this. His confidence in his team, flowed over to the wedding party (including me – the father of the bride who paid for all of this!!!). There is much to be learned from an entrepreneur or manager who can respond to a serious problem while maintaining their composure in the midst of frantic clients during an ensuing crisis.

The venue brought the power back up with the generators they procured. Everything seemed ready to go. The power came on within minutes of the time that the wedding was to start. The guests were in their chairs, the music played for me to escort my daughter down the aisle. Then, everyone stood to see the bride just before I began to turn the corner to escort her to her awaiting groom… and the power went out again!!! I looked to my right and watched a team of people from the venue run to the generators and fix the latest challenge within seconds. And… the power was up once again within a few moments.

With that, the music also started again. The people remained standing. The venue went above and beyond to get all of us to this moment. Now, I had to escort a VERY frenetic bride-to-be down the aisle. Any bride would be frenzied at this point and my beautiful daughter was certainly in that headspace.

So, as I walked her down the aisle (a very long aisle I might add), I did what any father might try to do – make her forget about her nerves. I could feel her arm trembling as we took our first steps. I leaned over and whispered in her ear, “Have you ever wondered why you park on a driveway and drive on a parkway?” That was so obviously a random statement to make at that moment that she looked at me curiously and said, “What?” I replied, “Or, why is that you send cargo by ships and shipments by car?” The shear randomness of these questions started to make her chuckle. So, I went on to say, “why do you think we call them ‘cookies’ when we actually ‘bake’ them?” Now she’s actually laughing and people had to be wondering what the heck I was saying to her to make her

laugh. As we got closer to her groom I ended with one last question, “Why are they called apartments when they are all stuck together?” At this point she was no longer frenetic, and she had a huge smile on her face as I kissed her cheek, told her I love her, and handed her over to her groom. She was beautiful, calm, and very, very happy.

It’s hard enough to do everything right when things are going smoothly. The test of a team’s ability to perform is how they handle things when serious challenges are going on all around them.

The lessons in this story are:

  • Remain calm during a crisis and project that sense of calm to your clients.
  • Believe in your team (which means you need to have a good one).
  • Don’t focus on the problem – focus on the solution.
  • Act quickly to implement that solution.

Oh, and if all of this happens just before you walk your daughter down the aisle to get married, take her mind off the chaos and have some fun. This last bit of advice can actually work in many situations throughout your life and your business.

The View From Your Windshield

Posted on by Ivan Misner, Ph.D.

There’s a reason why your windshield’s larger than your rearview mirror.  It’s important to have the clearest view possible of where you are going.  As a result, your windshield is substantially larger than your mirrors.  Don’t get me wrong, it’s important to know what’s behind you and to learn from where you’ve been.  However, if all you are looking at is your rearview mirror, it’s because you’re going backwards.  When you do that in life, you are not living in the present and you are not aware of what may be ahead of you.

Sometimes in life we do need to go backwards a little bit.  However, as soon as possible, we need to put that car in Drive and move forward to our intended destination.  To get to that destination, we should have a map or an app to take us where we intend to go. We set our goal and identify the route to reach it.  Sometimes, we have to take an alternate route because of heavy traffic or accidents along the way (both good metaphors for life).  But in either case – you need to have a general idea of where you want to go. 

I know people who work hard, have a fast-paced life, and are always very busy, but they don’t set life goals (and some don’t even set business goals).  From my perspective, most of these people are lost.  They are lost because if you don’t know where you want to end up, going faster won’t get you there quicker.

Windshield wipers are another great metaphor for life.  Sometimes the weather is so bad, you need something to help keep things clear.  Other times, you need even more help than that.  Years ago, I was driving with my family up to our lake house in Big Bear, California.  Suddenly, we hit a patch of fog that was so incredibly thick, I could not see the road in front of me at all!  Worse yet, we were driving up a mountain so I couldn’t see anyplace that was safe to move the car off the road.  So, I rolled down the window and stuck my head out and literally drove ahead looking down at the little white ceramic Botts’ Dots that are on so many highways throughout the country.  [By the way, they are called Botts’ Dots after Elbert Botts who invented them in the 1950’s.]  I drove very, very slowly staying in alignment with the Dots while my wife looked ahead to warn me if she saw the lights of any car ahead of us (thankfully, she didn’t).  After a mile or two, the fog cleared enough for me to roll up my window and simply drive ahead slowly. 

To me, the metaphor for this is that sometimes we may need an assist to get where we are going. It may be our life partner or business teammates or a mentor who helps us see more clearly. The key is – we generally need to continue to move forward (safely – of course) in order to get to where we want to go.  

One last observation – don’t let objects obstruct your view out of your windshield.  There will be people in life that will get in the way of where you are heading.  Don’t let them.  There will be people who want to stop you or keep you from looking forward. Don’t let them do that either. Keep the windshield of your life as uncluttered as you should keep the windshield of your car.

Your rearview mirror is to see what is behind you, what you already passed, and what is in the past.  With the crazy times we live in, it is more important than ever to remember that your windshield is larger than your rearview mirror for a very good reason.  From this moment forward know that it is the view out of your windshield that will take you where you want to go in life. 

Called the “father of modern networking” by CNN, Dr. Ivan Misner is a New York Times bestselling author.  He is also the Founder of BNI (www.bni.com), the world’s largest business networking organization.  His latest book, Infinite Giving, The 7 Principles of Givers Gain® is a book about building a life and business where you don’t have to choose between winning or helping others. 

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