Top > Business > 2005 > December > 2005-12-28

Improve Your Business Networks

The Business Network International (BNI) is a referral networking organization that currently has more than 4,000 groups in over two dozen countries world wide. The Business Network International (BNI) is the world?s largest networking organization and allows its partner`s access to dozens of sales people. Local BNI chapters meet weekly and are dedicated to sharing referral business picked up by members during the previous week. When a member of a BNI group meets someone who needs another member?s services, they pass along their business card and often make a recommendation.

This is a great deal for everyone involved. However, there?s still work to do. BNI is based on a proven notion that givers gain, born from the mind of BNI founder Dr. Ivan Misner. Success is dependent on what members do for each other. Misner offers tips for a fruitful BNI membership. He states that the first method of success deals with cultivating relationships, listen and find out what`s important to other members, and pass along meaningful referrals. Don?t always try to sell something to someone. The best way to build relationships is to help someone whenever possible.

Misner is also recommends to train the sales force. BNI membership is the opportunity to introduce a business to many people, but it must be done effectively. A statement about how a business benefits others and a memory hook arouses interest and gets them to join the business? word-of-mouth team.The final method for a successful BNI membership is to be patient. Dedicate the first year of involvement to getting to know the other members well. After developing real relationships and proving a business to be dependable, referrals for the business will result. Remember that givers gain, Misner says that "If I give you business you`ll give me business and we`ll both benefit as a result.?