Have you been considering joining a BNI chapter in Singapore? Still weighing the pros and cons? Never heard of BNI? Read about it here.
If you’re contemplating whether or not to join a BNI chapter and don’t know how or where to start, here are some factors to consider.
A short description of what BNI Singapore is about:
A group of business professionals from different trades coming together to help each other build and grow their businesses and networks. Also, it’s where you and your chapter members will exchange networking and referrals to help with getting more sales.
Indeed it is a good start for entrepreneurs who just kickstarted their business and are looking for a threshold. However, before you decide to join BNI, here are some factors to weigh on.
History of the chapter
How long has this chapter been ongoing? Who and what businesses are in this chapter? A chapter that has been around for a while is more stable and experienced. Members of this chapter will be more seasoned and established.
Industries and trades
The good thing about BNI is there won’t be two members of the same industry or trade in one chapter. There will only be one of each business sector in every chapter. This is to avoid repeated referrals and also no competition amongst members. So, make sure you are the only person in your industry before you join a chapter.
Size of the chapter
Some may think that a smaller chapter is more intimate and focused, however, BNI is all about stretching your networks and obtaining more referrals. A bigger sized chapter would benefit because this means more members will be able to provide you with more referrals for your business. for your business.
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Culture practiced by the chapter
A chapter with good culture and ethics make a difference to your whole experience. When a chapter has members that are diligent and has consistency, it brings good morale and spirit to everyone else in the chapter. This encourages members to actively seek referrals for each other as well as be enthusiastic about their business.
BNI Meeting Venues and Time
Another factor to consider when joining a chapter is where and when. Choose a chapter that meets at a location that is convenient for you to get to. Every chapter meets at a different location and at different times. There are over 30 BNI chapters in Singapore for you to choose from. Pick one that has the most suitable timing for you to attend on a weekly basis.
Once you have considered the factors mentioned in this article, it is time to visit one in SIngapore to determine which one is a good fit.
List of BNI Singapore Chapters
There are about 37 Chapters in BNI Singapore. With BNI Synergy being one of the largest chapters.
Most are English Chapters while a few are Chinese Chapters. You can find a chapter here to visit and research on.
BNI Singapore Code of Ethics
In BNI (Business Network International), there is a set of Code of Ethics that its members are expected to adhere to. It’s crucial for BNI members to honor these ethical guidelines to maintain a positive and productive networking environment within the organization.
How Much Does It Cost to Join BNI in Singapore
Joining BNI in Singapore typically costs around SGD 2000 per year, covering expenses like venue, food, and drinks during meetings. However, the actual cost may vary based on where you join and the type of membership you choose. To get the most accurate information, it’s best to directly contact the BNI chapter you’re interested in and talk to them.
Is BNI Worth It
Participation in BNI may not be suitable for all businesses due to several factors. Firstly, there’s a significant time commitment, requiring weekly attendance at meetings for networking. Secondly, there are financial considerations, including an annual membership fee and meeting fees that can reach 2k or more. It’s crucial to assess whether the referrals gained can cover these costs and provide a positive ROI. Thirdly, success in BNI requires a long-term commitment to building trust among members before receiving substantial referrals. Lastly, the nature of the business matters; service-based businesses like digital marketing and accounting tend to benefit more than product-based ones. In determining if BNI is worth it, businesses should weigh these factors based on their specific goals and expectations.
Conclusion
Joining a BNI chapter is not just about networking. It is also about your willingness and commitment to sustain relationships with the other members of the chapter. It also teaches you discipline as mandatory attendance is required for the chapter meetings. If you’d like to increase your business by 20% and up to 100%, BNI is the answer for you.