Let’s be honest: BNI isn’t new to you. If you’ve been around this podcast, you’ve heard us talk about Business Networking International before. But this time, we’re taking a deeper dive into something super practical: how to actually choose the right BNI group for your shop. Because let’s be real, not all chapters are created equal. In this episode, Kim and I walk you through the exact steps we’ve taken to find the best-fit groups, what red flags to look for, and how to show up ready to make a killer first impression. Whether you’re a natural introvert like me or you’re already networking like crazy, there’s a group out there for you, and we’ll help you find it.
Don’t miss this one—especially if you're ready to grow your business through real relationships and legitimate referrals.
Show Notes with Timestamps
Introduction and Sponsors (00:00:00) Podcast introduction, hosts, and sponsor messages for Shop Boss and App Fueled.
What is BNI? (00:01:20) Explanation of BNI, its structure, exclusivity, and benefits for business networking.
Personal Experiences with BNI (00:02:31) Hosts share how BNI helped their businesses and personal growth, especially in public speaking.
BNI’s Structure and Meeting Format (00:03:44) Description of BNI’s structured meetings, weekly agenda, and the value of regular participation.
Tracking BNI’s Impact (00:06:39) How the hosts tracked BNI as a marketing source and the variety of chapters in different regions.
Finding and Choosing a BNI Group (00:08:29) Step-by-step advice on finding local BNI chapters and evaluating group membership.
Understanding Networking Spheres (00:09:56) Explanation of networking spheres and the importance of complementary businesses in BNI groups.
Starting a New Chapter (00:10:50) Advice on starting a new BNI chapter if your area is underserved.
Evaluating Group Culture and Fit (00:13:03) How to assess group meeting times, culture, and whether the group’s vibe matches your needs.
Visiting and Assessing Groups (00:14:27) Tips for visiting groups, gauging friendliness, and looking for active, growing chapters.
Referrals vs. Leads in BNI (00:15:40) Clarifying the difference between warm referrals and cold leads in BNI.
Attendance and Participation Expectations (00:16:17) Importance of consistent attendance, sending substitutes, and treating BNI as a sales meeting.
Preparing to Visit a BNI Group (00:17:40) Best practices for contacting the group, arriving early, and networking effectively.
Making a Good First Impression (00:19:13) Bring business cards, research members, and tips for effective networking and presentations.
Membership Application Process (00:20:23) Overview of the application, vetting, and selection process for joining a BNI group.
Choosing the Right Group for You (00:21:14) Encouragement to visit multiple groups and focus on contact spheres and giving referrals.
Managing Expectations and Building Relationships (00:22:22) Advice on patience, building trust, and the importance of giving before receiving in BNI.
Getting Involved and Leadership (00:23:28) Encouragement to participate in leadership and help shape group culture.
What to Do if Your Seat is Taken (00:24:28) Strategies for staying engaged, waiting for openings, or starting a new group.
Closing Remarks and Podcast Network Info (00:25:45) Episode wrap-up, network app promotion, and final sponsor acknowledgments.
This episode is sponsored by Shop Boss. You know, other shop management software makes you work, but Shop Boss works for you.
AppFueled at appfueled.com. “Are you ready to convert clients to members? AppFueled™ specializes in creating custom apps tailored specifically for auto repair businesses. Build your first app like a pro.”
