Residential Mortgages
"My business would not be as successful as it is today without my involvement in BNI. I've had the opportunity to develop many friendships and business relationships. Mortgage lending is very personal, and customers want to do business with someone they can trust. It takes time and commitment to build those relationships. BNI offers the best setting to network and build trust between members."
Michelle Robinson
Synovus Mortgage Corp.
Tuscaloosa, AL
|
Photographer
"My photography business makes about 35% of it's sales in BNI and BNI referrals. My confidence and public speaking has inproved by being a member of BNI and my skills in Networking also have been rewarded."
Pat Patterson
Daniels Photography
Huntsville, AL
|
Residential Builder
"Being a contractor amidst a recession, BNI has taken away the doubt about when the next job will be. BNI has spread our name, our business, and has cut our advertising dollar. Word of mouth, there is no better way to build your business."
Brian Cairo
Manager of Operations
Southern Heritage Builders, LLC.
|
Moving Company
"My name is Shy Needle and my company is Coleman American Moving Services, we are an agent for Allied Van Lines. I joined the Strictly Business BNI group who meets for lunch on Wednesday at 11:30 am in March of 2008, when I asked my company to let me join they didn't think I could get enough referals to make up the memership fee, but they let me join anyways. I was put on a strict watch from my company to see if the referals would bring us business and money. In my first year with my group my company made $750,000.00 dollars from the referals I received from my power team in my BNI group. So when it came time to renew my membership my company had the check ready with no questions asked. In my second year we did even more. I really enjoy the members in my group they all strive to bring me realiable referals, and I have made some real good friends since I've been in this group. I never miss a Wednesday unless I'm on vacation. I really feel great knowing I have a mini sales force out there helping me and my business."
Shy Needle CMC
Coleman American Moving Service's
Agent for Allied Van Lines
Huntsville, AL
|
Computer Services
"From a 8 year span of not believing in the BNI mission and purpose, I was asked by my customer to try this new group out two years ago. It was the core group of the Birmingham’s Best. It completely changed my view on BNI and I have been an active member for 2+ years. Our group was comprised of very professional, strong business mined, ethical people with strong leadership - it worked and worked for me. As a geek that likes to live in datacenters, BNI allowed me to work on my communication skills; educating people about my company and my services without making their eyes glass over. I have made long lasting relationships personally and professionally and enough business to more than justify my time and money to be in this group.
"We have truly a selfless family where Giver’s Gain is tested true."
Brad Stroup
Cataserv
Birmigham, AL
|
Financial Services
"I had the wonderful experience of starting a BNI group and because of this I had the opportunity to connect with my core group and establish relationships and trust early. Usually, it takes longer for the fincial folks to start receiving referrals and while that is true for me in receiving referrals from my BNI members, most of my BNI members are clients, so the overall result is the same: Increase in bottom line. I also have had the joy of getting to know a group of great professionals who I can refer my friends and clients to. It is so gratifiying to be talking to someone who ask 'do you know???' and I flip open my BNI Book and say 'yes, I do.'"
Linda Crumbley
Licensed Agent
New York Life Insurance
|
Attorney at Law - Business
"Meaghan, my membership in BNI does indeed have both a personal and a business dimension. On a personal level, I have met some really fine people who I never would have met otherwise. The friendships alone are of great value to me.
"Our chapter is still quite young so the business aspects are still developing. Nevertheless, I have taken personal satisfaction in being able to refer some business to several of our members, and to personally use the services of several others – and in so doing get to know them better. Happily, I have also been the recipient of business referrals by several of our members. This includes, for example, Kendall Pool of the Alabama Teachers Credit Union, Gary Wigington of Alabama Homes, LLC, Chuck Ward of Billy Isom GMAC Real Estate, Skip Ward of NAI Chase Commercial and Joe Bynum of Raymond James Financial Services, Inc."
Ed Isom
Isom & Stanko LLC
Anniston, AL
|
Bank Services
"What I can say is that BNI played a large part in my success that I was able to achieve while in the retail sales area of the bank I work for. I did receive many referrals that translated into my own profitability. However, it also offered me a book of resources that I could extend, assist, and help my own client base with. Bankers are often times a 'go to' person or 'sounding board' for many non-banking issues. Having my BNI contacts gave me the opportunity to better serve my clients who needed help outside my area of expertise. I was able to do this with a comfort level that left me knowing that my referrals were being taken care of and that my clients were happy with me as their banker. Happy customers equal greater retention numbers which circles back to my own increased profit levels."
Jeff Allison
BBVA Compass Bank
Birmingham, AL
|
Genteral Contractor
"As a BNI member for two years I can testify that givers gain works. Winter months are lean in all construction related work. BNI has consistently fed me referrals during those lean months. With the economy in such rough shape I don’t think I could have made it through 2009 without BNI referrals."
Fennigan T Spencer
Alabama Contractor Referral Services
|
Printing Services
"I was a little skeptical at first to join BNI, because one of our directors told me he had not had very many results from visiting a previous BNI chapter. Needless to say, I'm glad I went ahead and joined. Our company, Allied Photocopy, Inc. is a 40 year old printing business, that has really never done any networking, or much advertising over the years. Its mostly been just word of mouth.
"The company hired me two years ago to come on board as business development director, because we needed to do something to stimulate sales, and become a greater presence in the Huntsville Alabama marketplace.
"BNI has certainly been a tonic for us, as I now have about 25 new people on my sales staff (I'm referring to the other BNI members) on my team. Last year we realized approximately $50,000 in sales, coming to us through BNI members and their referrals.
"It take a while to build relationships, so don't be discouraged if, at first you don't have huge sales. Just show up, be friendly, and follow the time proven rules that BNI has set up for their chapters to follow. If you do this, good things will start to happen.
"Remember to have a good attitude and be open. Forge those relationships and greet everyone with a handshake and a smile! Try to be truly interested in what other people need. Listen to what they are saying. You'll be surprised at what can happen when 'givers-gain.'"
Wayne Dillard
Allied Photocopy
Huntsville, AL
|
Telecommunication Services
"As a member of BNI I have made great contacts with several large companies in the Birmingham area. I feel that these contacts are going to yield big dividends in the future. The constant contact with members is really helping me stay busy with proposals for these companies. I also enjoy the education I gain from the weekly meetings and the different perspectives that I can learn from due to the many industries involved."
Steve Davis, President
Network Data Solutions Inc
Trussville, AL 35173
|
Automotive Parts/Accessories
"BNI has made a huge impact on my business. With the current economic condition I needed to be able to expand into new markets beyond our core business. BNI has opened many doors and minds to my products. People instantly put up defenses to sales people they don’t know which can make my job difficult and not much fun but with a quality referral I experience less push back and potential customers are much more receptive to new products. I hate to think of were my business would be right now if it weren’t for BNI. Easily 70% of my sales come from BNI referrals."
Andrew Locks
Locks Enterprises
Justice Brothers Distributor
205-908-1271
"Justice for your Car"
|
Handyman
"Personally: I have made good friendships with the group. I would trust any of them with my business and personal matters. I enjoy the meetings and the business that we pass to each other.
"Professionally: My business had grown 40% over the past year since I have been in BNI. With the tier 1 - tier 4 referrals.
"With the processes in place in BNI, I have seen an increase in business with everyone in our group. The referrals that we pass to each other, the power team meetings and one-to-ones have helped in my skills as a sales person and a business manager. I would recommend BNI to all small businesses as a tool to increase your contacts and your business in general."
David Brooks
DB & Son Repair
BNI Trussville
|
Handyman
"I have been a member of Wealth Builders since it chartered in March, 2008. The benefits that I have received from my membership have been a significant increase in my business, as well as being part of relationships that have helped me improve the way I do business. Last year I was able to give just over $60,000 in referrals and received approximately the same amount. Just yesterday, I closed a sale worth over $8,000 that is from a BNI referral. Much of the successes that I have seen in Integrity Home Repair can be traced back to my BNI relationships."
Jon Slater
Integrity Home Repair, LLC
cell: 256-508-3137
|
Landscape Services
"In the past, business was coming in by leaps and bounds. With the actions of our current government and the decline in the economy, we need to strengthen our relationships and build new ones in order to market our services. BNI is a tremendous avenue to build new relationships and help others find potential clients. The positive energy I get from my group is worth it's weight in gold."
Bill Nelson
The Nelson Team Inc
Birmingham, AL
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Cosmetics/Skin Care
"Thank you for giving me this opportunity to share how much I love BNI. Birmingham's Best BNI has been a tremendous asset to growing my business. I have developed awesome relationships that I'm sure will grow into life long friendships. Thanks BNI for sharing & growing my business with me!"
Debbie Bullock
Independent Consultant
Arbonne International
|
Marketing Services
"BNI works, plain and simple.
"As a chapter, we become a close knit group of business partners, each looking for opportunities for each and their respective businesses. It is a pleasure to help those that help me.
"As my fellow member’s business numbers increase, my business increases as well."
David B. Owens
Synergy Marketing, LLC.
Birmingham, AL
|
Restaurant
"BNI has been very beneficial for me. I have only been a member for six months, but would estimate an average of $500 in business gained each month. In addition, my biggest success was realized during our “gift card season” over the holidays in which BNI was responsible for over $5000 in gift card purchases!"
Clint Umphrey
Managing Partner
Texas Roadhouse
Pelham, AL
|
Lighting Specialist
"Personally, BNI has been a source of encouragement from the beginning of my career. All of my fellow members have been a source of support. “Starting Over” was not easy and I began in the Electrical Goods field after obtaining my B.S. at the University of Alabama and shortly thereafter acquiring an ALA Lighting Specialist certification.
"Professionally, I primarily work with Builders and have added quite a few through the BNI referrals. I am encouraged to know that business has definitely grown due to the investment of time through BNI. Many of these homes have lighting packages from $ 6,000 - $ 10,000."\
Fran C. Wise
ALA Lighting Specialist
Lighting Plus
Tuscaloosa, AL
|
Travel Agency
"I have been a member of BNI for 4 years now and have made many friends and business associates. The BNI members in our club have been so good at using me when they make their travel plans. I am also getting referrals from Alumni and from Alumni referrals as well that no longer are members. Each year sales get better and better."
AAA ALABAMA/Tuscaloosa, AL
Angela Wingo
|
Hair Salon
"#1 Why would you not be in BNI.
It has put me in tune to so many other businesses and trades that are out there. I feel like if anyone tells me they need a certain professional, i know one! I have built some of the greatest relationships of my life and will continue to do so. I have learned things that i probably would never have learned and taught others things as well. I'm not sure if there is any small business that would not benefit from this. As a Stylist, i have been able to help other members and their referrals to achieve what they have been looking for, needed to change, or just a fresh new image that suits that individual. It is my job, and my life. It is nice to be around other professionals that are as passionate as me. Thank You for the opportunity."
Noelle Standiford
e//even salon
Huntsville, AL
|
Office Supplies
"BNI has been a wonderful opportunity to not only increase my sales but to also open doors to potential clients that might not otherwise have been available due to the relationships with other BNI members. It has greatly expanded my contacts in the Huntsville market and I have many new friends that I know I can count on if ever I need them."
Brenda Powell
Business Development Associate - Staples Advantage
Huntsville, AL
|
Health & Wellness Products
"This is Gladys Riser with USANA Health Sciences and member of the Business Builders chapter of BNI. Thanks for this opportunity. I have been in BNI a little over 2 years and beginning to see progress with my health related business. In this particular area it may take a little longer to see results. Lately one member of my chapter started using the USANA products and told me last week that she is feeling better and her shoulder is not hurting nearly as much as it was. Also, her husband has been taking some of the products and is good getting results. I am also beginning to teach weight management classes in which people in the past have reported seeing improvement in their blood work related to cholesterol and type 2 diabetes. I am so glad to be having a positive influence on the lives of others. BNI affords me the opportunity to meet many new people, get to know them and see if USANA has something to offer them for their benefit."
Gladys Riser
883-2441
Independent Associate
USANA Health Sciences
|
Restaurant
"BNI has been an amazing thing for my business. When I first joined, I offered up my location for our meeting place. Talk about 'givers gain,' the response from my BNI teammates has been tremendous. They utilize Momma Goldbergs for one on ones. They call me up for catering when they are giving presentations or refer me for catering jobs for someone they know who needs it. Every time they invite someone to our meeting, they are doing a small bit of advertising for me because they have to explain where the meeting is and how to get there. I made the membership fees back within the first two weeks of joining. Everytime I meet a new restaurant owner, the first thing I ask them about is if they belong to a BNI group and if not would they be interested in one. I can't help it. It helps your business out so much and I would feel guilty keeping this 'secret' to myself."
Hal Craig
Momma Goldberg's Deli
Birmingham, AL
|
Health & Wellness Service
"BNI sounded like a great idea and one I was willing to try, since I had to start my natural health & wellness business all over again in a new state. I thought it would be a great way to get my business re-started and a good way for me to meet people. I didn't realize the magnitude of the "Givers Gain" philosophy, nor the training and education BNI provides. That alone has increased my business 32%. Because of a continued building of trust and respect among my colleagues, my business continues to grow and prosper. BNI has become both my friend and family."
Geraldine McNamara, HHP
Healthier Me, LLC
Geraldine@healthier4me.com
|
Cosmetics/Skin Care
"My name is Tammy Doering. I own “Totally Pamper Me!” Natural Nail Spa & Image Boutique. Our company has been manufacturing All Natural Dead Sea Hair, Skin & Nail products since 2000. Our company needed more local awareness as well as referrals. We became part of a core group that helped start a BNI Chapter in Anniston, Alabama.
"It was the BEST investment we’ve ever made! Within our first two weeks as an ‘unofficial’ chapter our company made back our investment with a $300 profit. We continue to do 1-2-1’s with the members and are creating innovative ways to promote our company along with our BNI Family Members. We truly have made lifetime friendships with our BNI membership and will do all we can to keep our membership anchored for a lifetime.
"One of the best things that has come out of our BNI Membership (aside from the relationships) is the training we received and learning how to create a Sales Manager Moment that describes as well as teaches the listener about what our company does in under 30 seconds. As a speaker and tradeshow vendor, this has tremendously enhanced our capability to professionally tell consumers about our products and services in a timely fashion."
Tammy Doering
The Mud Queen™
Manicurist Instructor
|
Pest Control
"What has BNI meant to me? Well first I will say, I would not have started my Business without BNI. I was in BNI with another Pest Control Company before I retired. Starting a new Business is always risky. I knew what BNI was and could do for me. That is why I did not hesitate to start a new business. Presently over 35% of my business in direct relation to BNI."
Ken Ramay
Capstone Environmental Pest Control
|
Chiropractor
"My name is Dr. Beth Scherer and I am a chiropractor with Back on Brack Chiropractic in Cahaba Heights. I have been a member of BNI for just over 1 year and have thoroughly enjoyed the experience. I have made business relationships with a massage therapist and a nutritionist who have eventually joined my practice. In addition, many of the members have become patients and have referred friends and family. I enjoy going to the meeting on Tuesday mornings and learning about the different businesses through one to ones.
"Overall, I would recommend BNI to any chiropractor who wishes to join. It has definitely been an asset to my practice."
Dr. Beth Scherer
Back on Track Chiropractic
Cahaba Heights, AL
|
Bank Services
I have thoroughly enjoyed being a part of BNI. I have also had the privilege of experiencing 'Giver’s Gain'. I have given out a few referrals and received as well. I have had one close of business from a referral for a Certificate of Deposit. It turned out fantastic! Being a member of my BNI group; I’ve had the opportunity to meet several people and hopefully will soon be able to call them customers. I have only been a member for a couple of months now, but have made several lasting business relationships already. I would recommend BNI to anyone looking to network or grow their business. It’s a great way to have your very own 'marketing army'. They work just as hard for you as you work for them; thus… 'Giver’s Gain!'"
Tabitha Ivey
SOUTHBank
Branch Manager
|
Landscape Services
"BNI has been a tremendous help for me more personally than professionally. Though it has generated well over $100,000.00 in the past few years it has also forged relationships both professionally and personally that would
have otherwise been impossible to build. I think that these 'relationships' built on trust has helped me develope both now and in the years to come. From my first visit I was'nt sure what it was all about but I knew I had to be a part of it. My membership in BNI is something I hold onto with pride. Thanks for allowing me to be a part of it."
Johnny Walsh, President
QUALITY LANDSCAPE MANAGEMENT INC.
Tuscaloosa, Al.
|
Chiropractor
"I'm very happy with my membership in BNI. I've had more referrals from my chapter than from any of the other one-on-one marketing efforts I'm engaged in. I've also utilized the services of several of the members of my chapter and I'm very pleased. My membership has paid for itself many times over and I belong to a great group of people."
Gregory Tenn, DC, CSCS
Tenn Chiropractic Clinic
Pelham, AL
|
Shipping
"I have had a wonderful time in the past 10 months in BNI. I have made numerous relationships in BNI and in outside events through BNI members. I have brought on 5 great accounts from referrals which equates to close to 10% of new acquisition since April 2009. They collectively average around $550 per week in revenue so its definitely been worth the investment!"
Brandon Bishop
Logistics Consultant
Worldwide Express
|
Flooring: Carpet, Hardwood, Tile
"BNI has been an incredible part of my business this year. I have seen my contacts and involvement in my community explode. I have had over $30,000 in sales in the last 6 months from BNI alone. Givers Gain is an incredible concept that has really improved the quality of my business relationships. I would highly reccomend BNI to all business professionals."
Jamey Reynolds
Foote Bros. Carpet One
Anniston, AL
|
Handbags
"BNI has been the catalyst that spurred the growth for my new business, Miche Bag of Alabama. I know that the networking and 'giver's gain' has brought me at least half of my business in dollars through myself and the Miche Bag Sales Reps that are also members of BNI. Through BNI, I have made many close friends and enjoy a network of professionals that I am proud and confident to refer business."
Peggy Cooper
Authorized Premier Distributor
Miche Bag of Alabama
256-975-1592
|
Building Supplies
"My name is Sarah Matthews with Ferguson Enterprises, Inc. (Huntsville Branch). I have only been a member of BNI – Success Builders for a few months now…but it has proven to bring much success. It is encouraging to see other business-minded people, such as myself, excited about their business and mine. My power team has formed some wonderful business relationship and consequently the traffic flowing through my Showroom and picked up tremendously. I look forward to seeing the amount of business that is triggered from BNI this year!!"
Sarah Matthews
Outside Sales
Ferguson, a Wolseley company
|
Attorney at Law
"I have developed meaningful business relationships with BNI members and their referrals that have enriched my practice and helped me to maintain a good client base and steady income. I have seen first-hand how continuing client relationships can be established and how limitless word-of-mouth referrals can mushroom from the spark of a good BNI referral."
Kate Pritchett, Attorney at Law
|
Printing Services
"I speak to many people each day and always find an opportunity mention BNI. There are so many out there that have not heard of us, and love telling them about BNI and the wonderful relationships I have developed with my "sales force". We truly care about each other personally and professionally, and we are verrrry loyal to each other.
"My 2-year membership is paid for at least 2 times and sometimes more every month through referrals and closed business, I am serious, one month of closed business more than pays for my 2-year membership. I would never think of cancelling my membership with BNI.
"As a matter of fact, I am interested in my company being instrumental in helping to form a new chapter in the Shoals area. I will discuss this further with Jerry when he visits with us tomorrow."
Debra Crain, Account Executive
SAS, Inc
|
Lawn Care
"My name is Charles Anthony Harris of H-inc. (Dba Lawn Service) and a BNI member of the Tuscaloosa Alabama Chapter. We are very excited about our opportunities with BNI. The philosophy of "givers gain" by giving business to others, you will get business in return has truly enhanced our business. After joining BNI a few months ago we were only doing business for Chapter members; however, once the members got to know and trust our company the number of referrals doubled. Being a part of BNI will help our company increase business and this membership has also enabled us to develop meaningful relationship with other quality business professionals. By the way things are going now, I know we will be flooded with referrals by spring and summer."
C.Anthony Harris
H-inc.
|
Property & Casulaty Insurance
"BNI has been a valuable marketing tool for me. Not only have I received many qualified referrals over the past two years that has turned into business, but my relationships with the other members in my chapter as well as other chapters has given me a book of individuals and companies that I can use to help my customers."
Jimmy Quinn
Allstate Insurance
|
Pest Control
"Meaghan, I've have really enjoy being part of BNI . I know it works, I've worked by referrals and word of mouth for 23 years. I belief in doing good work and doing the job right the first time, and this produces good referrals for me. I have met several good contacts in BNI, and has brought me about $20,000.00 in contracts in the past 8 months. And I have been able to return about that much business back to my chapter and some to other chapters. My weakness has been getting visitor's I invite to show up. BNI has been worth the time and money I've invested in it."
Gary Doran, Owner
Elite Pest Management Services
New Hope, AL
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Bank Services
"Givers Gain is just that, but it does not happen over night. One thing about banking, is that we continue to plant seeds every day for future business. Sometimes the results are immediate and sometimes it might be 3-5 yrs before we get business. Each year, on my BNI anniversary, I analyze the amount of business and since inception have always been satisfied with the amount of business I receive. One thing about banking an account opened up today can be around for years to come, so the revenues are on a continual basis. On other products, there are immediate income, based on product."
James H. Clayton, Jr.
Executive Vice President
The Bank of Tuscaloosa
|
Roofing
"I am Steven Ricketts with Continental Roofing. I am proud to say that I have had 2 successful referrals in a little over a month that will pay for my membership. So far so good and I expect it to get better as I build trust with members in my chapter."
Steven Rickets
Continental Roofing
|
Cosmetics/Skin Care
"The friendships and relationships of the people in my BNI group are one of my favorite things about BNI. The women in my group are my most loyal customers and they have brought me the most business from their friends and families. It takes time to build relationships and the best way to build those relationships is being in front of the same people week after week."
Stacy Junkin
205-242-5240
www.marykay.com/sjunkin
|
Fire Protection
"Sometimes Fire Protection is considered Sprinkler contractors which we are not. BNI has been a great marketing tool for us. Not only in the sale of new systems but for the contacts of property managers
to be able to monitor, service and test competitive systems. BNI has been one of the best investments our company has ever made."
Rick Jordan
Security and Fire Equipment Co.
3700 Northbrook Drive, Suite 11
Northport, AL 35473
205-339-7288 phone
205-339-7388 fax
|
Financial Advisor
"I am originally from Huntsville, AL and moved my financial business to Decatur for 3 years, having no relationships in the Decatur area. I joined River City BNI to meet key business owners so that I could expedite establishing my presence in Decatur. As a result, I have not only secured a strong market in Huntsville, Athens and Madison, but I have also gained a strong market share in Decatur thanks. By patiently working the system, I have built a residual business in Decatur that is over 3 times my annual and weekly BNI dues and venue fees combined. More importantly I have established strong friendships with present and fromer members that will last a lifetime. Being well connected has helped me help others not only in giving business to fellow BNI members but also helping prospects meet their needs for the products and services that my fellow members provide. It feels great knowing you are helping others and by default helping better your own business."
David Fanning
Financial Advisor with LPL, Madison, AL
|
Business Advisor
“BNI has been an integral part of my business plan. About 75% of my business comes from BNI referrals. In the past 6 months I have had several tier 2 clients and recently closed my first tier 3.”
Steven Levy
SEL & Associates
Business Advisor
|
Painting
"Hi. This is Jerod Snider. I run a small painting business in the Anniston, Alabama area called Pro Painting. I took the business over in August of 2009 after the prior owner died in a tragic motorcycle accident. Wow, what a learning curve. I was invited to BNI immediately by the chapter vice-president, Jim Doering, but it was a couple months before i could join. I can now say that in a time when most paint businesses are closing or laying off, my business has done nothing but grow. With about 50% of my business coming from BNI referrals, I can truly say I wouldn't be in business this year without BNI! Thank you!"
Jerod Snider
Pro Painting
|
Travel Agency
"About three years ago, Laura Davy, of Send Out Cards, and I stuck up an acquaintance while working out at a local gym. Laura came to find out that I was selling cruises as a franchisee's associate, and that I wasn't making much headway. She talked to me about BNI and convinced me not only to join her chapter, but to buy my own CruiseOne franchise. From that moment, business has only gone up - even in a 'down' economy. It's absolutely true that the members of my chapter have become my sales force. I have received many more second tier referrals than I could ever expect to get on my own. I am looking forward to an even better year in 2010."
Fred McBride
Your Personal Cruise Specialist
CRUISEONE
|
Graphic Designer
"BNI has helped me form long term client relationships with small businesses who need my services. Because my business is based on helping other businesses succeed, I feel BNI is a perfect fit for me."
Monica Yother, MY Designs Graphic Design and Illustration
|
Residential Real Estate Agent
"BNI has been very good for my business; essentially recession-proofing it the last two years. Because of BNI and my past clients,business hasn't been slow for me in a down market. Many of my realtor friends have had to take a second job or leave real estate to make ends meet, but not me. Real estate is certainly a trust-based business, and BNI provides that "in" to close more business and not spin my wheels doing business-related activities which don't give much return, ie, ROI. It also provides a "business family", for those of us that own our own business, and we support each other in good times and bad. I've heard from many that the BNI meetings are the highlight of their workweek."
Kim Dillon, Realtor, Keller Williams Realty, Huntsville, Alabama
|
Real Estate Appraiser
"I joined BNI when I first got into the Real Estate Appraisal business. Whenever business slowed down, either due to the market or season, I could make an appeal to my BNI group and always got a referral to increase my business. I would say over 50% of my business is directly related to BNI connections - not just the immediate members, but many of the folks they referred to me."
Marty Hamner
Real Estate Appraiser
Shamrock Appraisals, Inc.
|
CPA
"I have made contacts with a few members that have provided me with a steady stream of referrals. I have also been able to provide referrals to a much larger number of members that I never would have had a relationship with and this has helped me in providing those contacts to my clients that are in need of those services."
Edward L. Thomas, Jr. , C.P.A.
Haynes Downard, LLP
|
Property Management
"I have been a member of BNI for several years now and have found it to be a huge tool in conducting our business. I have been able to establish several key relationships with members of our group that have enabled me to turn to them in confidence when our clients and customers are in need of repairs or services. These relationships have also helped us in the management of our own assets as well. Many of the relationships that I have formed with members of our group will undoubtedly be lifelong friendships. In addition, many of the referrals that I have received over the past few years have led to long term client and customer relationships."
Bryan Jenkins
Director/Company Broker
AHI Properties
|
Residential Mortgages
"BNI has been great for my personal business. Being in the mortgage business and dealing with individuals finances, you have to have strong trusted relationships in the real estate market in order to receive referrals from realtors, builders, financial planners, attorneys, etc. As part of being in BNI, I would say that my business relationships have grown my business over 20% in the last 2 years! BNI gives the structure needed to build 'high-trust' relationships with referral partners, which will in turn grow your business!
Danial Pate
President of Mortgage Lending/XCO
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CPA
BNI has and is a great organization for professionals to be involved with. I've been in BNI for 5 years. During that time, I have met many wonderful people and professionals within my community. The relationships I have developed are important to me; however, BNI is about growing your business. I average receiving $15,000 annually directly through BNI referrals and contacts. For an approximate costs of $850 annually and a few hours a week, I believe that is well worth the investment."
Todd Cowart
Steve Richardson & Company, CPAs, PC
Tuscaloosa, AL
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Website Design
"I was a Charter Member of the original Tuscaloosa, Alabama club and eight years later am still happy to be here. Developing relationships with other area business people over the years has helped my business to grow and prosper. The referrals I have received, range from 15 - 25% of my yearly gross, making BNI an integral part of my business strategy and marketing efforts. BNI is a investment that pays."
Edward Todd
Todd Media, Inc.
Tuscaloosa, AL
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Cleaning-Carpets-Floors-Upholstery
I have been in the cleaning business for nearly 25 years. Most all customers over the years come from referrals. The problem has always been winning a wide customer market for continued growth.
After becoming a member of BNI, the Trussville Chapter, doors opened to new customer bases never before accessible. Business is up by more than 35% and there is hardly ever a slow down.
I have been able to separate my business from the competition through my 60 second training session every week and my fellow members take the information to generate excellent referrals. The main thing I take away from the weekly meeting is, BNI is not about the 90 minute weekly meeting, it's about the positive actions of our members generating referrals from the time the meeting ends until the next begins.
Not even a Cleaning Superhero could generate this quality of business exposure in such a short period of time.
Cleaning Superman alter ego:
George Barnett
G & G Services
205-856-1720
205-919-8244
www.CleaningSuperhero.com
Member of BNI Trussville
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