I went to a networking luncheon today for BNI. I didn't know what to expect so was a bit apprehensive. But everyone seemed nice and approached me to introduce themselves, etc.
There were about 15 of us for lunch (a couple trays of sandwiches, salad, fruit and cookies). Only one profession can be represented per chapter. Today there were a couple lawyers (focusing on different areas), massage therapist, real estate agent, decorator, IT guy, insurance agents, etc.
The members and visitors (ie me) have to stand and do a 60 second introduction ~ basically it's an advertisement about themselves and their product/service. Then one of the members does a 10 minute speech (today was the IT guy). Then they go around again and give each other referrals and testimonials. Then the visitors have to stand and say what their impression of BNI is.
It's about $600 a year plus $150 a quarter for the room/lunch. Kinda pricy but worth it, I guess, if you are getting a lot of referrals out of out. And they expect you to attend their weekly meetings. If you miss three in six months, they have a chat with you. Big commitment.
Interesting experience!
1 comment:
The world is small! I am a BNI member too, in Oslo, Norway. I like to call myself a A creative, enthusiastic, self motivated CEO with extensive experience in networking. One of the most important non virtuel network of mine is BNI. On the 'Link' section of my blog, you can see the other network I'm in.
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