Week 30 (April 21 – April 27, 2025)

Introduction

“Good morning, everyone! While BNI provides us with a powerful network inside our Chapter, it’s just as important to network outside the Chapter to build new relationships and broaden our reach. Today, we’ll talk about how to leverage networking opportunities beyond our weekly meetings to help grow our businesses.”

Body

“Networking outside the Chapter opens doors to new referral opportunities and strengthens your professional presence. Here are three ways to build relationships beyond our Chapter:

1. Attend local events – There are many local business events, Chamber of Commerce meetings, or community gatherings where you can meet potential clients and partners. These events provide a chance to introduce yourself and your business to a wider audience.

2. Use social media networking – Platforms like LinkedIn and Facebook are great tools for connecting with professionals outside your immediate circle. Engage with posts, join groups, and create conversations that showcase your expertise and invite connections.

3. Be consistent with follow-ups – After attending an event or making a new connection online, make sure to follow up. Whether through an email, social media message, or a One-to-One meeting, consistent follow-up is key to building trust and long-lasting relationships.”

Example

“Imagine you attend a Chamber of Commerce meeting and meet a local business owner. After the event, you follow up with a LinkedIn connection request and suggest grabbing coffee to learn more about each other’s businesses. This simple gesture can turn a casual introduction into a valuable referral relationship.”

Conclusion

“Networking outside of BNI is an essential part of growing your business. By attending local events, leveraging social media, and following up consistently, we can build strong relationships that complement the work we do within our Chapter. Let’s all commit to expanding our networks beyond BNI and bringing the value of those connections back to our Chapter.”