How to get the most from your BNI Membership

From April 2015

When you joined BNI -  

What were your expectations?

  

• Get lots of referrals, get more business, make money?

Here are some the things that I believe will make these a reality -  

-  On page 28 of the Mentee Packet, the last line says - "The keys to success in BNI are the same as for your business: Plan, Prepare, Execute, and Evaluate. Too many see their BNI participation as separate from their business when in fact the way we present ourselves at the BNI meeting is the model our fellow members see as how we do business."

What are the Key Fundamentals?

-        Show up Early, with a Positive Attitude, Prepared, and Participate

• I love the old saying that if you show up on time, you're late. By showing up early, you have the opportunity of being more visible to your fellow BNI members and you also have the opportunity to network with the visitors. Better yet, if you don't already have a leadership responsibility, become part of the Visitor Host Team.
• "The winner's edge is not in a gifted birth, a high IQ, or in talent. The winner's edge is all in the attitude, not aptitude. Attitude is the criterion for success."
  - Dennis Waitley

Be Prepared

-        Sales Manager Minute (or in some Chapters 30/45 seconds)

• Your opportunity each week to train your Sales Team on how to find good referrals for you
• Don't wing it
• Write it down
• Include the 5 elements
• Make it Memorable
• Practice it!
• Have more than one - Switch it Up!

-        10 Minute

• Your opportunity to train your Sales Team on how to find good referrals for you
• Don't wing it
• Write it down
• Make it Memorable
• Practice, Practice, Practice!!!

Participation

• Take advantage of Training - The training that BNI offers would cost thousands of dollars from outside vendors. We pay pennies on the dollars and learn for industry experts
• Network with members and visitors - Be early to meet visitors and catch up with members
• Have One on Ones - This is where you really get to know the members of your Chapter and where real business is done. Try to have at least one a week. Once you've met with all the members, rinse and repeat. You'll learn something new.
• Get Involved - By getting involved, a member increases their visibility. Step up and use your strengths and talents. Ask your Leadership Team where you can be of help.
• Do Your Reporting - Why? It shows your commitment and participation
• Be On the Hunt for Referrals
  • Carry your card file
  • Listen for referral opportunities
  • Start a conversation
  • If you have an office - Put up a card rack with all the members business cards.
  • Program members contact info into your smart phone

In Summary - The way we present ourselves at the BNI meeting is the model our members see as how we do business.  

Think of BNI as you would about doing business with your Best Client!

Show UP - Step UP - Get Involved!