Great post folks. If I can add to the questions and comments. 1st BNI Business Network International is an International organization whose purpose is to pass out referrals. I belong to the Hall Of Fame Chapter in Canton Ohio. We started December of 2008. Being a year old, went from a handfull to 45 members. I am the only Painter / Pressure Washer in the group. This is one rule. Only one business of it's kind may be represented. If someone wanted to come in as either Paint or PW, it is legal. The new member would have to be investigated and approved by the membership committee. If I knew they were trying to bring either in, I could let the committee know my feelings. This may or may not stop it. When we had few members, it probably would have happened. Now with 46 members, we look closely who gets in. We would not accept a Handyman into our group as this is a problem for various trades and businesses. As far as meetings, you are a guest for the first two visits. At that point, they want either an application or find another group to join. The BNI is everywhere. We have three within 25 miles. I could join another, but I am not personally allowed to represent my company as I already do in the HOF Chapter. Our newest group is just starting. If another painter / PWer wants to join, we recommend them to that Chapter. They need one. Our meetings are every Tuesday 7am. It is essential someone be there representing us. If we miss three meetings within 6 months, our position may be open for a new member in our catagorie. Being on time and not leaving early is essential also. During the meeting, if there is a visitor, no matter who, they are asked to associate with others. We want them to talk to our members and find if the BNI is a good fit for them. During the actual meeting we pass a business card holder. Actually two as we are so big. The visitor may take cards from the file, but asked not to pass their cards till they are accepted into the group. We are all given 45 seconds to relate our business info. The guest is given the same chance after all members are done. After the meeting the visitors are asked to visit with our membership comm. and given a question and answer period to help them decide if they want in or not. All pretty simple. One problem is many members do not understand the real way BNI is supposed to work. This causes misunderstandings and resentment of Visitors in their catagorie. Kind of like many Organizations. Over all BNI is very good to us.
We have received enough business last year to make up 5% of our gross business. We are very active and enjoy the weekly get together. I work very hard passing referrals to my fellow members. We have a saying "Givers Gain"! It works. Of course not everyone is acclimated to the proper workings as they should be. Believe it or not, I question our Officers from time to time! LOL This is one way to keep everyone focused.
Our group is 46 members strong,
Pass out from 30-85 referrals per week,
Have done $1,125,000 in business for our first year.
Hope this helps.
Thank you