As you might be aware BNI has recently transitioned to BNI Connect – an application for chapter management, social networking and member referrals. It’s a very positive step forward for us as BNI Connect is used by BNI members worldwide.
Every member of BNI needs to create and fill out their BNI Connect Profile. Time wise it should only take 20 minutes or less. Though it looks a little different to what you’re used to, member public profiles and all chapter/member data entry and performance reports still have similar names and functions.
How BNI Connect takes networking to another level and adds more credibility to how your business is perceived….
- It allows you for the first time to put a comprehensive bio up online that other members can take a look at – in a similar way to LinkedIn or other websites.
- You can put up a profile picture so viewers get to put a face to your business.
- You can note what you are currently working on and if you have any important projects or products to promote.
- There’s other fields like Goals, Accomplishments, Interests, Ideal Referral, Top Product, Top Problem Solved, My Favourite BNI Story and My Ideal Referral Partner.
- Viewers could be from anywhere in your region, New Zealand or around the world.
- The profile is available to search engines such as Google.
We expect BNI nationally to be strengthened with the introduction of BNI Connect as members also interact outside of their weekly meetings. This means greater collaboration amongst members and it will be easier for chapters that want to put on events with other chapters to do this. The more we use BNI Connect, the stronger the connections that will grow and the more powerful and valuable it will become.
