BNI differs from many networking groups in terms of the way we give back to our local communities. We do this because we believe in our core value of Givers Gain.
This a key philosophy of BNI; based on the law of reciprocity. In the context of networking groups, people who adopt this philosophy dedicate themselves to giving business to their fellow networkers, rather than making their foremost concern getting business for themselves. In doing so, other people naturally become eager to repay their kindness by sending them business in return. Now that sounds like a great New Year’s intention.
Givers Gain is a great way to live life in general and it is a standard which we can all apply to ourselves. It’s also something that has proven to be good for business. How?
Givers Gain Boosts Morale. As individuals, giving back to our communities makes us feel good, causes us to be more socially aware, and helps us bond with our colleagues as we team up to help those in need. In 2018 the quest for a great work-life balance, it will be important to many A-list candidates to be employed by a business that gives to charity for these very reasons. Sponsoring a charity event that falls in line with your business is a great way to do some good while getting your name out in your community. You’ll want to select a charity that aligns well with your business to make the greatest impact. For example, if you are a company that makes women’s clothing, you may want to sponsor a marathon for breast cancer research. By sponsoring a worthy charity, you’re presenting your company in a positive light by demonstrating to the members of your community that you care about them.
Givers Gain Increases Network Opportunities. We all know the inherent value of networking, but sometimes it’s difficult to break the ice with new prospects. There is a need to discover common ground to help make that connection. It’s so much easier to talk to someone when you share the same passion. Through working for charitable causes, you can create new contacts and immediately have something to talk about with them. It also gives you a regular platform to help maintain those relationships.
Givers Gain Generates Positivity Around Your Brand. Consumers appreciate and support socially conscious businesses. In fact, customers are 85% more likely to buy a product that is associated with a charity. Recently we saw a great example of Givers Gain in the Nelson region. Shelley Carppe of BNI Nelson Originals set about to donate $100 for every listing and sale she made in real estate during 2017 to her local hospice. By last month this totaled over $4000. It was her most generous donation and her best year in business – Shelley believes the two are closely related. Why not follow Shelley’s example and make plans to give back to your own community in 2018?
You can practice Givers Gain as an individual and as a chapter! Who can you help today?
