Be Part Of The Network Being a Member Why join a business network group like BNI? This is a question everybody should ask before signing up as a member. By being a member of a chapter in BNI, a business owner has a powerful word of mouth marketing opportunity. Members of a chapter, following the practices established by BNI, consciously make an effort to find out more about each other’s business with the intention of helping generate referrals for each other. Where else can you find such an effective marketing tool? It is a way of marketing a product or service without “beating around the bush”! Its clear from the beginning that everyone is a member with the intention of increasing one’s own business. Its how we do it that makes a difference. Referrals are often backed by testimonies of members or members friends and/or business associates who have experienced another member’s products or services. BNI provides members with tools on how to network effectively, how to promote one’s business effectively and how to keep track of business being transacted as a result of the membership. However, referrals are not automatic and there is a requirement of a certain amount of participation in BNI’s methods and the chapter’s activities and events. All activities are designed to raise a member’s visibility, which leads to credibility and ultimately will result in a member’s profitability. Visibility -> Credibility->Profitability There are not that many rules to abide by, but the THREE (3) main ones are ATTENDANCE, to bring REFERRALS and VISITORS. United Chapter has grown from the initial 15 members to the size it is today because of the commitments made by the various Leadership Teams and active participation of its members. Just remember that it’s important to keep an open mind and be receptive of new ideas. The key to success in a chapter is active participation! Visitors to our weekly meeting are warmly received and well taken care of by our Visitor Hosts. New members are immediately coached & mentored by senior members so that they will blend into the UNITED FAMILY quickly & to keep an open mind, be active in chapter activities and be receptive new ideas.
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Networking is a popular way of doing business. Traditionally, it was done on the golf course or during business lunches. However, in this day and age one has to move towards new methods as a means of keeping up the changes in society. Speed is now what most people are looking for. So by joining a business network group like BNI, a member’s intention is made known almost immediately to the other members. If presented in a clear manner the other members in the chapter would be able to help seek what a particular member is looking for. Testimonies by members or their referrals would go along way in promoting a member’s business. Networking in the BNI context exposes a business owner to a variety of businesses that he/she may not normally encounter and yet is an opportunity for that business owner. Members are also able to work together in teams in related fields so that each can enhance their business and services. Most importantly, by interacting with other members one is able also learn from the experiences of others. Ideas are shared and applied to the running of our businesses in general. All without having to employ a consultant to advise you. All from people who care about how your business grows
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