How to Choose the Right BNI Group.
If you want your business to grow through word-of-mouth, joining a business networking group like BNI can be a great way to do so. Business Networking International, or BNI, is a worldwide group that helps its members get more business by getting referrals from other people. But not every BNI group is the same, so it's important to find and join the best one in your area. In this article, we'll talk about some important things to think about when choosing a BNI group.
The place and time
When choosing a BNI group, the first thing to think about is where and when it meets. You should look for a group that meets at a time and place that works for you. Most BNI groups meet once a week, usually in the morning or at lunch. Make sure that the time and place of the meeting don't conflict with anything else you have to do.
Member Diversity
The next thing to think about is how different the people in the group are. A good BNI group should have people from different industries and jobs. This lets the group get referrals for a wider range of businesses and keeps it from focusing too much on one type of business.
Group Size
It also matters how many people are in the group. Larger isn't always better. A group that's too large can be overwhelming and make it difficult to build meaningful relationships with other members. On the other hand, a group that is too small might not have enough people in it to bring in enough referrals to make a difference. Aim for a group size that has a good mix of people from different industries and jobs but is still small enough for people to get to know each other well.
Referral and Showing Up Requirements
BNI groups typically have referral and attendance requirements. Members are expected to give a certain number of referrals each month and to attend meetings regularly. Before you join a group, make sure you understand these rules. If the group's rules about referrals or attendance seem too strict for you, it may not be a good fit for you.
Member Testimonials
One of the best ways to find out about a BNI group is to attend a meeting as a guest. During the meeting, you'll be able to hear presentations and stories from members. Take note of how well the members present their ideas and how enthusiastic they are. If the presentations are lackluster and the members seem disengaged, it may be a sign that the group isn't a good fit for you.
Leadership and Support
Finally, consider the leadership and support within the group. A strong BNI group will have a strong team of leaders who help and guide the group's members. Look for a group with a proven track record of success and a leadership team that's committed to helping members grow their businesses.
In conclusion, finding and choosing the best BNI group in your area requires some research and consideration. Before making a choice, take the time to look at the location and schedule, the diversity of the members, the size of the group, the referral and attendance requirements, member testimonials, and the group's leadership and support. By joining the right BNI group, you can build meaningful relationships with other business professionals and get a steady stream of referrals for your business.
BNI St. Clair County
929 Edgewood Dr O'Fallon, IL 62269
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BNIStClair
https://goo.gl/maps/Pfz5ZfEoTsfYoqbb6