Week 15 (January 6 – January 12, 2025)

Introduction

“Good morning, everyone! Today, we’re going to talk about one of the most important aspects of BNI—referrals. Referrals are the lifeblood of our Chapter, and they often come from having genuine, meaningful conversations. It’s not just about asking for referrals—it’s about building relationships that lead to them.”

Body

“To maximize referral opportunities, we need to focus on the quality of our conversations. Here are three key strategies to ensure that we’re having the kinds of conversations that naturally lead to more referrals:

1. Be genuinely curious – Show a real interest in the person you’re speaking with. Ask about their business, their challenges, and their goals. When people feel heard and understood, they are more likely to think of you when opportunities arise.

2. Give before you ask – Instead of immediately asking for referrals, focus on how you can help the other person first. This might be through advice, resources, or even a referral of your own. Givers Gain®, after all!

3. Follow up consistently – Building relationships takes time. Follow up on conversations and check in regularly. Consistency shows that you’re invested in the relationship and not just looking for a quick referral.”

Example

“Imagine you’re having a One-to-One with a fellow Member. Instead of jumping straight into asking for referrals, spend time understanding their business needs and challenges. Offer to introduce them to someone in your network who might help. This kind of genuine interaction leads to trust and, over time, more referrals.”

Conclusion

“Referrals aren’t just handed out—they come from genuine relationships and meaningful conversations. Let’s focus on being curious, giving first, and following up consistently. By doing so, we can maximize our referral opportunities and strengthen our Chapter’s success.”