What is the Secret

Everyday I talk to members about BNI, and networking. Many have wonderful success stories to tell me, like Deb and Erin in Greenwood and Tim and Erica in Columbus. Members tell me how they have increased their business by 25%, 35%, and 60%. Then I speak to another member who tells me how they have been a member for an entire year and it is just not working for them. They have gotten NO business from their chapters.

I find myself asking why? What makes the real difference between those whom are doing well, and those who are not, here are some of the things I have found.

Education – Those people in life and business, who are extremely successful, never stop learning. They are always trying to find new ways of doing things. They understand that even when they think they know it all, there is always something new to learn and try. They not only learn it, they implement it. They also understand that they are responsible for educating their fellow members as well as being educated during one on one’s.

Time – the highly successful members have a very clear understanding that it takes time and commitment to build trust and understanding with fellow members that will lead to the high level of referrals that Tim and Erica are passing. They understand that Trust cannot be rushed, and that dollar for dollar the longer they are a member of their chapter, the higher the return on their membership. Most members don’t put in the time that it takes to build those relationships.

Gratitude – Deb and Erin don’t forget to thank one another, no matter how many referrals that Erin gets from Deb, her referral partner, she never forgets to show her gratitude and appreciation for the work that Deb has done on her behalf. This makes Erin FUN to refer to. When was the last time that you got a referral from a fellow member, closed the deal, and the very most you did was drop a “Thank You” slip into your chapter basket? Did you send a little gift? Did you write a note? Remembering to say thank you will inspire members to refer you again. I have a referral partner who always gives me a Starbucks Card when I refer her, even when the deal does not close. I love referring her and always have my ear open for her. Are you fun to refer?

The next time that you think, “My BNI chapter is not working for me” ask yourself,
“Is there any other educational opportunities that I can take advantage of? Have I spent enough time developing my relationships? Have I said “Thank You” ?

Best of Networking
Hazel M. Walker