BNI members are very aware of time. What time they need to get to their chapter meeting by, the time it takes to really do their 60s, the planning they should put in when it comes to their 10-minute presentation.
Think about it. You took the time to invest in BNI. And you want your chapter members to invest in you by giving you quality referrals, as you do with them.
Time within BNI is of the essence. This is your extended marketing team. This is your time each week to market yourself, your business, to do business, to give business and above all, it is your time to network to make it all happen.
Each calendar year, depending on when your chapter stops for the festive season, you have approximately 65 minutes of time to talk about your business to your fellow chapter members. This is based on your weekly 60-second slot and about two 10-minute presentations in a year.
That time is precious. Speak clearly and speak well – talk about what is important to you in your business and what you are looking for as a good referral. Member Success training is time well spent – you can learn how to maximise your time within BNI and turn your chapter meeting into a focused marketing opportunity.
Make it worthwhile; it is your time to shine. Prepare your 60-seconds each week (and not just on your napkin before you speak). Ensure your 10-minute presentation is not the same PowerPoint you used last time with a few small changes. Think outside the square – use your time efficiently.
TIME.
T = tick the boxes of information you need people to know to enable to get referrals.
I = use your imagination, be creative, interesting, different.
M = manage your time, preparation is key.
E = Experience. Create an experience when you speak, create something memorable. Use your memory hook, if you don’t have one, create one.
Use your time wisely, as it will create business for you by ensuring that your other chapter members are well-informed of your business and what you do.
Hannah Blake is the imaginative genius behind BlakePR and is the BNI Regional Director for Northland.
