Out with the old - My year on the LT for BNI Diamond

Today was the last day of my Secretary Treasurer role for #BNI Milton Keynes Diamond Chapter.  Out with the old, in with the new as they say! 

 To say I was hesitant when it was first discussed would be an understatement.  

•  Would it take up too much time?
• Am I organised enough to be ST?
• What if I let people down?   

 But reflecting on it, I am so pleased I was asked. It has been a blast and I have definitely won business because of the increased visibility.

Here is a list of things I have learned along the way ...

 1. Consistency is key to networking. Show up relentlessly and prove you have a commitment to growing your business.

 2. It is not about how many people you network with, it is about the quality of those you network with.

 3. Business will fluctuate, having a good team around you means the world 

 4. You can’t network passively, simply turning up will not do the job

5. Givers really do gain. But giving does not have to be a direct referral, giving time, a friendly ear, sharing marketing and all other small but supportive contributions matter. 

6. Tracking your networking is crucial. If it is not working it is your responsibility to work out why.  

7. Taking time to get to know each other really helps when it comes to being able to spot referrals for your team. Likewise, it also helps your team refer you with confidence. 

8. Getting specific about what you are looking for helps your team find referrals that are similar to your request but using the terms ‘anybody’ and ‘everybody’ really does translates as ‘nobody’. Tip: key referral partners work well as specifics too, not just the consumer

9. Adapt to change fast. I adapted to Zoom pretty quick but I wish I had made more use of the ability to visit more meetings around the country (I have only just cottoned on) 

10. It is not for you to decide who would join a group like BNI or not. Ask people to come as a visitor and give them the opportunity to work it out.  

Bonus 11. Don’t take it too seriously, if you mess up your words, if you are unprepared one week or if your internet drops .. that is all ok. Don’t panic, don’t worry. It happens. Just pick yourself up, have a giggle about it and move on. 

Over the past year, I have had the pleasure of supporting Andy and Ros and I am super proud of the team we are handing over as of next week. Andy has been a rock in the group, his consistency and relentless enthusiasm to support and grow the chapter has been inspirational and Ros, whose organisational skills are second to none. She has also had some pretty crappy jobs (part of being VP) and she has carried it out with grace and humility. 

The new members that have joined us over the past few months have all got off to a cracking start. The energy is buzzing right now! I am really looking forward to developing those relationships! 

And the old dawgs of the chapter who have all helped make the team what it is today. Thank you.

If you would like me to introduce you to a BNI chapter I would be happy to. If you are in Milton Keynes I would LOVE to introduce you to BNI Diamond .. they are real gems!  

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